For Creamer Media in Johannesburg, I’m Halima Frost.

Making headlines: DA writes to Firoz Cachalia demanding urgent release of delayed Q1 crime statistics; Ramaphosa congratulates Malawi's Mutharika for his Presidency win; And, Botswana economy suffers steep contraction in Q2 on diamond sector woes

DA writes to Firoz Cachalia demanding urgent release of delayed Q1 crime statistics

The Democratic Alliance today demanded the immediate release of the delayed first quarter crime statistics, which were due at the end of August 2025, saying the delay raises serious questions about the South African Police Service’s capacity and willingness to ensure accountability.

The party said it would be writing to Acting Minister of Police Firoz Cachalia, demanding their release to Parliament and the public, as required by law and established Cabinet practice, and to provide clarity on the reasons for the omissions and delays.

The last crime statistics were released on May 23, with the party noting that Q1 statistics are overdue.

The party has been calling for greater transparency and timely updates from the Ministry of Police, citing concerns about accountability and public information.

Ramaphosa congratulates Malawi's Mutharika for his Presidency win

President Cyril Ramaphosa congratulated former Malawian President Peter Mutharika on his election victory in Malawi’s general elections, expressing his profound appreciation to outgoing President Lazarus Chakwera for his dedicated leadership.

Official results showed that Mutharika won 57% of the vote, compared to the 33% of Chakwera.

Mutharika previously served as President from May 2014 to June 2020.

Ramaphosa wished Mutharika every success as he prepares to undertake the weighty responsibility conferred upon him by the people of Malawi.

He said South Africa looked forward to continuing its close collaboration with Mutharika’s administration, working in concert to strengthen the enduring bonds of friendship and solidarity between the two nations.

And, Botswana economy suffers steep contraction in Q2 on diamond sector woes

Botswana's economic output fell sharply in the second quarter, reflecting a steep decline in output from its key diamond industry, data from the statistics agency showed on Friday.

GDP decreased 5.3% in year-on-year terms, the steepest quarterly contraction since the Covid-19 pandemic.

Diamond production in carats declined 43.1% in the second quarter of 2025. The steep decline reflects the diamond companies’ continued efforts to scale down operations amid sluggish global demand, the statistics agency said in a report.

That’s a roundup of news making headlines today

Don’t forget to follow us on the X platform, at the handle @PolityZA