A new University of the Free State study has found hormone-disrupting chemicals in every sanitary pad and pantyliner tested from brands sold in South Africa, even those labelled organic or chemical-free. The research detected phthalates, parabens and bisphenols in all samples, with at least two such substances in every product. UFS scientists warn that millions of women face regular exposure and are calling for clearer labelling, tougher safety regulations and urgent further research. Elvis Presslin spoke to Team Free Sanitary Pads Founder, Nokuzola Ndwandwe

A new University of the Free State study has found hormone-disrupting chemicals in every sanitary pad and pantyliner tested from brands sold in South Africa, even those labelled organic or chemical-free. The research detected phthalates, parabens and bisphenols in all samples, with at least two such substances in every product. UFS scientists warn that millions of women face regular exposure and are calling for clearer labelling, tougher safety regulations and urgent further research. Elvis Presslin spoke to Team Free Sanitary Pads Founder, Nokuzola Ndwandwe

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Hormone-disrupting chemicals found in sanitary pads and pantyliners

In a tense sitting before the Madlanga Commission, suspended Tshwane Metro Police officer, Major Lebogang Phiri, has come under sharp questioning over his role in responding to repeated vandalism at water infrastructure sites. Phiri outlined that during late December 2024 and early January 2025, a pattern of vandalism had emerged targeting reservoirs and pump stations, allegedly linked to organised criminal activity exploiting water shortages through illegal tanker operations. Major Phiri has been accused of assigning contract work to private security firms without the necessary delegated authority and of allegedly steering contracts towards Gubis85. 

In a tense sitting before the Madlanga Commission, suspended Tshwane Metro Police officer, Major Lebogang Phiri, has come under sharp questioning over his role in responding to repeated vandalism at water infrastructure sites. Phiri outlined that during late December 2024 and early January 2025, a pattern of vandalism had emerged targeting reservoirs and pump stations, allegedly linked to organised criminal activity exploiting water shortages through illegal tanker operations. Major Phiri has been accused of assigning contract work to private security firms without the necessary delegated authority and of allegedly steering contracts towards Gubis85.&nbsp;

Phiri tells the Madlanga commission of syndicates systematically vandalizing infrastructure.

The South African Communist Party says its decision to contest the 2026 local government elections independently is not a break from the alliance but a push to advance working-class interests. General Secretary Solly Mapaila told media the move follows concerns over the direction of governance and the need for accountable representation. Mapaila says the party rejects what it calls attempts by the African National Congress to pressure its members, insisting the SACP remains committed to the broader struggle while asserting its independence in the electoral space.

The South African Communist Party says its decision to contest the 2026 local government elections independently is not a break from the alliance but a push to advance working-class interests. General Secretary Solly Mapaila told media the move follows concerns over the direction of governance and the need for accountable representation. Mapaila says the party rejects what it calls attempts by the African National Congress to pressure its members, insisting the SACP remains committed to the broader struggle while asserting its independence in the electoral space.

Solly Mapaila: SACP never viewed ANC as enemy

In a significant ruling, the Constitutional Court of South Africa has upheld a decision by the Supreme Court of Appeal, confirming that directives issued by the South African Human Rights Commission are not legally binding. While the Commission retains its powers to investigate complaints and make findings on human rights violations, the judgment makes it clear that it cannot enforce compliance through its directives. The ruling raises important questions about the powers of Chapter 9 institutions and what this means for accountability and human rights protection in South Africa. To unpack this for us we spoke to legal expert, Mpumelelo Zikalala

In a significant ruling, the Constitutional Court of South Africa has upheld a decision by the Supreme Court of Appeal, confirming that directives issued by the South African Human Rights Commission are not legally binding. While the Commission retains its powers to investigate complaints and make findings on human rights violations, the judgment makes it clear that it cannot enforce compliance through its directives. The ruling raises important questions about the powers of Chapter 9 institutions and what this means for accountability and human rights protection in South Africa. To unpack this for us we spoke to legal expert, Mpumelelo Zikalala

Hormone-disrupting chemicals found in sanitary pads and pantyliners

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