News Bulletin of 27 May 2025, 5pm

Braamfontein is getting a major facelift, with precinct manager Kelvin Tshabalala at the helm of efforts to turn Ameshoff Street into a safe, beautiful and walkable 24-hour zone.
From tightening up security with 68 CCTV cameras to tackling weeds and broken pavements, Tshabalala is hands-on — and he’s not afraid to make a call when something’s out of place.
The area is already showing signs of revival: students, creatives and office workers fill the streets, while landmarks like the Nelson Mandela Bridge are shining after recent upgrades.
With help from Bad Boyz Security, JMPD and community policing, crime has dropped — and with over 40,000 Wits students in the area, Braam is buzzing again.
Tshabalala says it’s all about teamwork, and the goal is clear: to make Braamfontein a vibrant, well-managed cultural and business hub once more.

The Electoral Commission says it aims to improve not only the procedures of elections, but also the value they bring to democracy.
Digital technology in elections is seen as inevitable, and the IEC has been studying global examples since 2013.
Following a recent session with academic stakeholders, the commission is now identifying policy options before finalizing systems and regulations for e-voting.
Key steps include legislative review, public education, infrastructure development, training, and piloting.
Public consultations are ongoing and are expected to conclude in September.
A green paper is planned for March 2026.
The IEC says any shift to electronic voting will follow a broad consultative process and must ultimately benefit voters and improve efficiency.

The Gauteng Education Department says it's committed to accountability and collaboration to ensure safe, well-managed schools.
Following recent concerns at Unity Secondary School in Benoni, the department says allegations of bribery and forced donations were investigated, with no evidence found.
Academic support has been strengthened after a drop in matric results, and teacher training is underway.
In Riverlea, mobile classrooms have been delivered after a fire damaged parts of the school, with repairs planned for next year.
The department says despite budget cuts, core services and educator salaries remain supported.