South Africa Roundup: Forgery allegations, Workers' Day celebrations, Nelson Mandela's mural unveiled

Nelson Mandela's mural unveiled

A new mural of Nelson Mandela has been unveiled in Bristol to mark 30 years since the end of apartheid in South Africa. Bristol Live reports that the mural, located at the Pickle Factory in Easton, was completed on April 27, known as 'Freedom Day' in South Africa. Artist Nick Halahan was commissioned to paint the portrait of Mandela, who spent decades in prison before becoming the country’s first Black leader in 1994. The mural celebrates Mandela as an iconic role model and symbol of freedom and liberty. Bristol was home to one of the most active anti-apartheid groups in the UK.

Workers' Day celebrations

The government paid tribute to South Africa's workers on International Workers' Day, celebrating the historical struggle of workers and trade unions. This year marks the 133rd anniversary of May Day and 30 years of freedom in South Africa, South African Government News Agency reports. The day serves as a reminder of the pivotal role that trade unions and other labour organizations played in the struggle against apartheid and symbolizes the journey towards fair employment standards and the battle against apartheid.

Genocide case against Israel

Turkey has joined South Africa in a genocide case against Israel at the International Court of Justice. The Turkish Foreign Minister Hakan Fidan announced the decision to submit an intervention declaration, aligning with South Africa's legal proceedings. The move reflects Turkey's support for the Palestinian cause, with President Tayyip Erdogan providing documentation for the case. Israel and its allies have rejected the allegations as baseless, 124news reports.

Alleged signature forgery case against Zuma

South African police are investigating alleged signature forgery by former president Jacob Zuma's MK Party for national election registration. The party faces legal challenges regarding its eligibility for the May 29 elections. A former party official claimed there was an elaborate scheme to forge signatures, prompting an investigation. If found guilty, the MK Party is likely to be disqualified from the elections, Fox News reports.

South African Workers acknowledged by presiding officers of parliament

The Acting Speaker of the National Assembly Lechesa Tsenoli and the Chairperson of the National Council of Provinces Amos Masondo have extended gratitude to South African workers on Workers' Day. They acknowledge the progress made in advancing workers' rights and call for continued efforts to address gender disparities and youth unemployment. They also indicated that parliament is committed to improving the lives and working conditions of South African workers through legislation and oversight. They further recommitted to the principles of fairness, equality, and justice, Zaywa reports.