FIFA HAS A NEW PRESIDENT

Today Fifa elected New president in Zurich

Let's hope the demons that robbed Football Federation its reputation won't come back again, and the new leadership will expose more transparency, less conspiracy.

Earlier, South Africa's Tokyo Sexwale dropped a bomshell before Fifa presidential candidates voting could takes place by withdrawing. He pulled out of the race with  these words. "You don't have to vote for me, I have a surprise for you...my campaign ends today. And I suspend my participation. I leave only four people, and out of four candidates you decide. I thank you."

Supposedly, he saw it fit to withdraw since well his campaign was doomed from the on set. There wasn't enough support back home, particularly in Africa let alone CAF. I applaude him for being brave and confident to compete in world stages such as this one👏!

Breaking News: The New FIFA President is Gianni Infantino of Switzerland. The UEFA general secretary wins with 115 of 207 votes, after getting 88 votes in first round. Front runner, Sheikh Salman of Bahrain got 85 votes. Other participants, Prince Ali got 4 votes and Jerome Champagne zero. It's a second successive win from Switzerland.

"I like to thank all of you. I want to be the president of all of you. I travelled through the globe and I will continue to do this. I want to work with all of you to restore and build a new era where we can put football in the centre of the stage," said Infantino after his victory. The 45-year-old vowed to lead Fifa out of years of corruption and scandal.

AN OFF-REMP SITUATION

Which route will president Jacob Zuma 2016 State of the Nation Address speech imposes? No doubt that various issues needs to be tackled. But first, before addressing the joint sitting and the nation, here are my two questions. Number one: Why was Nhlanhla Nene axed? Second: Nkandla-after denying to paying back the money; suddenly you agreed to do so. Why now?

South Africans have spoken, demonstrated their grievances on media platforms. Myself insinuate you vacate office with immediate effect. For now I have not much to say...

THE YEAR 2015 CONCLUDES

'A year of sacrifices, misfortunes and discontent'.
In South Africa, our president became a hard talk conversation. President Jacob Zuma's discontent mounted when he decided to axe Minister of Finance Nhlanhla Nene.

ECONOMIC STRUGGLE-  As if the nation was not stunned enough, after Nene's axing the rand plummeted to record lows. We have seen various protests emerging in numbers this year, the students movement in Higher Education marching for free education #FeesMustFall trended on social network. Rivalry between   President Jacob Zuma's supporters and those calling for his removal  (the anti-Zuma) wrestled it out on Twitter using hashtags  #HandsOffZuma #ZumaMustfall #ANCWLmarch #Nkandla and #PayBackTheMoney certainly It's freedom of speech.

GLOBAL NEWS- Civil War in Islamic States dramatically excalated. Extremists continued to flourish across the world. Around one million refugees and migrants, many fleeing  war and poverty in Middle East, Asia and Africa, entered the European Union this year according to the United Nations.

Above all these, myself ended 2015 with a bag! At the awaited Birthday Party of my best friend Mildred, whom I have known for 23 years. We had an incredible journey together, and I am blessed to have her in my life.

Thanks❤💚💖💛❤ Merry Christmas and Happy New Year!

Image: Me and friends, at the Party

NOT SO GRACE AFTER ALL

Zimbabwe's First Lady made vicious  comments regarding women and types of clothes they wear.

'Women are to be blamed for rape'- by Grace Mugabe; the controversial statement reads as follows

"If you walk around wearing miniskirts display your thighs and invite men to drool over you, then you want to complain when you have been raped. If you are raped, it's your fault.  Wear clothes like Mai Mugabe or you can choose a trousers, but not those which are too tight. These types of clothes are the signs of moral decadence in our country.It's unfortunate because it will be your fault."

Sadly we often cling to our belief system even if those beliefs makes us miserable.  Perhaps this is because knowing where we stand- even if we convince ourselves that reality is very bleak.

Shame on her, women are raped even wearing longskirts. There is no difference in the comments she made. What about grannies and infants? Where they wearing miniskirts when raped? Certainly not, they were wearing longskirts and nappies. Not forgetting children between age 2 to12 and so on- what about them... do they invite men to drool over them? That's insulting for me, impractical and immoral too.

Is people like you who creates dangerous societies by infiltrating such unethical and bad echoes without acknowledging reality or  the truth of it first. So Mrs Mugabe use your common sense and stop with your illusions.

By: Nelly Portia

Image of Grace Mugabe at the rally in Zimbabwe.

PIRATES HELD TO A DRAW

When it comes to derby, I can't make up my mind. Knowingly enough where my heart belongs to, but my mind says something else ☺.

There's something spectacular about Orlando Pirates FA. They are eagerly passionate and fearless to compete elsewhere in the world, but more importantly they play as a unit.

UPDATES: CONFEDERATION CUP 2015

A late equaliser dented Orlando Pirates hopes of lifting the second continental trophy when Amar Jamel Sahel's stand-in captain scored a goal in 3 minutes remaining.

Away goal is an advantage for Etoile, and Buccaneers will now have to score in Sousse to stand any chance of coming back with a win. Striker Thamsanqa Gabuza's goal had put Pirates in front in the 36th minute. But one sleep of a second caused Pirates to draw the match against E'toile Sportive du Sahel in the first leg at Orlando Stadium, Johannesburg last night.

"Having conceded at home is what we didn't want to do. But we also didn't want to loseit 1-0 and have to chase two goals, " said coach Eric Tinkler.

The second leg will be held at the Olympic Stadium in Sousse in Tunisia on November 29.

Source: SS Blitz

By: Nelly Portia

Gabuza celebrates with teammates after scoring a goal.

MALI HOTEL ATTACK

Menace: It seems like Islamic State are competing among themselves. Popularity is a crown to gain. It was a clear target to what it represents; international civilians were killed. The incident was bound to be global, and by doing so they want media attention.

MALI Hostage Siege: A Nine hour siege left at least 27 people dead. 140 guests and 30 staff were held hostages when heavily armed gunmen stormed the Luxurious Radisson Blu hotel in Bamoka Mali's capital on Friday.
*Two militants are among those killed.

"Like the heinous attack in Paris, and attacks we see all too often elsewhere; this is another reminder of the scourge of terrorism, " Barack Obama said, speaking in Kuala Lumpur on Saturday morning.

Chinese Foreign ministry spokesman Hong Lei also expressed condolence for the victims and their families: "China expresses indignation and strongly condemns this atrocity."

Reuters Reports: Al Qaeda affiliated terrorists group claimed credit for the attack. The government of Mali declared a 10 day state of emergency, and a three-day mourning peroid which had began today.

Twitter Comment by David Berke@berkesaw said "Mourn #Mali too. They may not have a Tower, but now they too are victims of Islamic terrorism. And yes, I said it. What it is, it is."

AFP: Security source says authorities in Mali are reportedly searching for at least three suspects over hotel attack. 

By: Nelly Portia

Image&Source by Mali Info/News showing militants(outside)surrounding Radisson Hotel.

JONES CAUSED A STORM IN CAPE TOWN

It was uncertain, and now it's been confirmed that Eddie Jones is the new England Rugby coach.

Jones had only been in Cape Town for 8 days to begin his work as the Head Coach of the DHL Stormers, and with no less than 2 months after signing with Stormers Super Rugby.

The 55 year-old Australian succeeded Stuart Lancaster, who left England after disastrous 2015 RWC campaign. The former Australia and Japan coach will stay on till December to assist Western Province Director of Rugby Gert Smal with onfield preparation.

WP President Thelo Wakefield: "It's pity to lose Eddie before he make his mark but you can't keep someone against his will."

Western Province Rugby has agreed terms with the Rugby Football Union to release Jones from a three contract. "While I am excited about the opportunity to coach England, I'm very disappointed to be leaving the Stormers, " said Eddie Jones.

"When I was appointed at Western Province Rugby, there was no vacancy within the RFU and I never envisaged this opportunity to come forward, " he added.

Eddie Jones, (Image) who led Japan to the RWC by winning 3 matches became England's first foreign Head Coach.

RICHIE CALLS IT A DAY

After winning a successive two rugby world cups, All Blacks captain Richie McCaw has announced his retirement with immediate effect on Thursday.

The announcement comes in the awakening news of former New Zealand rugby player's passing, Jonah Lomu on Wednesday. Lomu died of kidney disease at age 40.

Richie McCaw: "I sit here today with no regrets over what I have done as rugby player. I think I played some of my best rugby over those last couple of weeks."

The 34 year-old, flanker is the most capped international rugby player in history with this year when he surpassed a record of 148th test and captain 110 matches(all- time record). McCaw won three World Rugby Player of the Year awards in 2006, 2009 and 2010. He also led New Zealand to successive world cup victories in 2011 an 2015. Recorded 97 wins, 11 defeats and 2 draws

"I am going to be hanging up my boots. My last game for the All Blacks and as a professional rugby player was the World Cup final a couple of weeks ago, "McCaw told a news conference in Wellington on Thursday. He made his Test debut in 2001 and was appointed captain in 2004. After a 15 year glittering career he's been hailed as the greatest rugby player of all time, and leaving behind a remarkable memorable legacy.

"We are very proud of him. He made all New Zealanders proud. You couldn't pick the right time to do this, everyone knows that you got to wait for the right time, " said All Blacks coach Steve Hansen.

Meanwhile in South Africa: Legendary Springbok centre John Gainsford passed away on Wednesday morning, at age 77 following a long battle with cancer.

Source: SS Blitz

Today: Richie McCaw (image)at the press conference.

JOHNSON BOWS OUT

Australian fast bowler Mitchell Johnson has retired from all forms of international cricket after today's second Test match against New Zealand at the WACA in Perth.

Johnson took two wickets on the final day as the 2nd Test match finished in a draw. "My career has certainly had its up and downs but I can honestly say I have given it all my all and am proud of everything I have achieved. To win an Ashes series and a World Cup is something I will treasure forever, "said Johnson.

He is the fourth leading wicket-taker for Australia with 313 wickets in 73 matches at an average of 28.52 and best of 8-81. Also 239 wickets in one- day internationals. The 34 year-old was named ICC Player of the Year in 2009 and 2014.

Source: SS Blitz and ABC media 

"I've given the decision a lot of thought....

Latest Updates: Paris Attacks

What started as an ordinary Friday night ended in blood bath.

Islamic State has claimed responsibility for Paris attacks. Say,  "they've responded to airstrike attack in Syria". Death toll rises to 132 after three die in hospitals, and  99 are critically injured.

French Investigators have identified one of 7 attackers.
A Syrian passport was found near attacker, registered as refugee in October. Three terrorists arrested in Belgium and France. Meanwhile, six relatives of first identified attacker detained in France.

On Sunday, crowds gathered at Notre Dame Cathedral to remember those who lost their lives on Friday's attacks.

Worldwide Condemnation

Francois Hollande: "Nation must stand firm"
Vladimir Putin: "Attacks justify even stronger fight against jihadists"
Barack Obama: Outrageous attack, not just on people of France but this is an attack on all humanity"
Jacob Zuma: "SA stands with France"
UK: "We will do whatever we can to help"- David Cameron and Chinese President XI Junping offered condolences.
In Turkey: G20(Summit) to resolve differences on Syria to wipe out terrorism.

Nelly Portia 

Memorial Service: Crowds gathered at Notre Dame

PARIS TERROR ATTACKS

France is reeling from last night coordinated gunshots and bomb attacks across Paris.

Over 3 hour period, multiple shootings and bomb attacks were heard across the French capital. More than 128 people killed when gunmen opened fire at Bataclan concert hall where the US rock band was performing. While, 200 people injured and 80 butchered inside the concert hall alone. Eagles of Death Metal, band survived concert attack. 

Three suicide blast near Stade de France stadium

Several explosions went off at the National Sports Stadium where France was playing in a friendly match. France president Francois Hollande, was at the match when a bomb blast went. He was safely evacuated, and rushed to the Bataclan tragedy side. Attacks comes just after 10 months of Islamic Extremists in the country.

Hollande: "Will show no mercy to attack. We will not let you do this to us, we will deal with you in the French way". He described the attacks as an 'act of war' and unprecedented. State of emergency declared across country and 3 days of National mourning.

People shot dead at restaurants and bars in the city. The worst attack was at a Rock concert where gunmen were shooting hostages.

OFFICIALS STATS

Police: 4 attackers killed at Bataclan concert hall. Believe all 8 attackers are dead, but the hunt is on for accomplices. 7 killed by their suicide vests(blew themselves up)
*1,500 military personnel deployed in Paris.

Source: courtesy-France 24

Nelly Portia

Heart breaking- Images of the terror attacks at Bataclan Theatre and football stadium.

COMPONENTS OF THOUGHTS

Watch your thoughts carefully,  you become them. Whatever you're about to say today or tomorrow think first, it may affects others or destroy your reputation.

Bob Marley once said: "The good times of today, are the sad thoughts of tomorrow".

Remember, do more listening less talking- it helps to pay attention and stay focused in Life. "Character is a word that seems to define almost all human activity and some..."

Power is what you do and character is what you are" -Richard Reeves-

ANOTHER BLOW IN THE BUSINESS SECTOR

BUSINESS UPDATES

MTN CEO resigned in the wake of Nigeria fine scandal.

Sufiso Dabengwa has resigned over the weekend after consaltation with the board amid to a whooping $5.2 billion (R70.56 billion) fine by Nigeria Regulators. Two weeks ago, MTN failed to disconnect subscribers with unregistered and incomplete SIM cards.

He is been temporarily replaced by non-executive Chairman Phuthuma Nhleko.
Nhleko to act for maximum of 6 months while MTN identifies successor to Dabengwa. Currently, Nigerian Authorities are in talks with MTN over the fine, which is due on November 6.

*Nigeria is MTN biggest market in Africa, followed by South Africa.

Ex CEO- Sifiso Dabengwa 

ATP WORLD TOURNAMENT

TENNIS- Unstoppable Novak Djokovic continued with the winning streak by winning 10th title of the year.

On Sunday, the world No 1 became the first man to win six Masters titles by defeating Andy Murray 6-2, 6-4 in the finals of the Paris Masters. Djokovic won three of the four grand slam titles- *Australian Open, Wimbledon and US Open.

"I am obviously very proud and very happy to win this title again, It's a great tournament and all the best players in the world were here," Djokovic said at the court side. The Serbian has not lost since the Cincinnati final in August.

British no 1, Andy Murray struggled to keep composure and made to many unforced errors. "It's progress", said Murray after reaching his Paris Masters final. He earned 2 spot in the ATP world rankings following his straight set defeat on Sunday.

Next tournaments: World Tour Finals in London starts November 15-22. The 28-year-old will finish 2015 as No 1 in the ATP rankings.

Source: Super-Sport

Novak Djokovic and Andy Murray

EGYPT PLANE CRASH

Latest Updates: Britain had began repatriating thousands stranded nationals in Egypt. Extra planes flown in to help bring Brits home.

This come after UK government had suspended all flights to and from Egyptian resort two days ago following Saturday's plane crash. Two hundred and twenty four people were killed on board.

In March 2014, the Malaysian AirLine Flight MH370 disappeared without a trace, while travelling from Kuala Lumpur to Beijing. About 239 people killed including crew members. No one has claimed responsibility for that. 

October 2014, Malaysian AirLines Flight MH17 crushed after being hit by a Russian made Bulk missile over eastern Ukraine. A 15-month investigation was conducted by the Dutch Board; and 283 people were killed.

In this incident, ISIS said "they will respond in their own time of how they've targeted flight 9268.

Could Islamic State have bombed Flight 9268?

British MP said: 'likely' bomb brought down plane. Whereas, Russia and Egypt say no evidence disaster caused by bomb, and rejects claims of responsibility by IS-linked militants.

Meanwhile, US officials believe bomb theory but says it's a no 'definitive conclusion'.

Source: BBC

By: Nelly Portia

Aftermath- images of the plane crash

:

BACK-TO-BACK RUGBY WORLD CUP

Check out @WWOS9's Tweet: https://twitter.com/WWOS9/status/660522079624695808?s=09 #RWC2015 final Highlights of the match

McCaw "is the greatest All Back we've ever had, and Dan's a close second, "New Zealand coaching Steve Hansen said. 

New Zealand claimed a record third Rugby World Cup win. The All Blacks became the first team to retain the cup by defeating the Wallabies 34-17 at Twickenham on Saturday.
Australia scored two converted tries with the one-man advantage, and All Blacks scored five-tries.

Captain Richie McCaw: "When you have moments like this why would you ever call it a day?" McCaw, 34, the most capped international rugby player in history with 148th test is undecided about his future.

Teammate, Dan Carter has announced his International retirement after scoring a record 1,598 points in 112 appearances. A career best finisher missed out the 2011 final through injury. On Sunday, the 33-year-old was named the World Rugby player of the year for a third time at a ceremony in London.

*Accolades received by Players:

1. All Blacks have won Team of the Year
2. Dan Carter named Player of the Year
3. Julian Savea won International Rugby Player's Try of the Year
4. Nehe Milner-Skudder earned the Breakthrough Player of the Year (debut year in the black jersey)

*Departing Players:
RWC squad All Blacks are Ben Flanks, Ma'a Nonu, Conrad Smith, Dan Carter, Colin Slade, Keven Mealamu and Tony Woodcock.

"You have all played pivotal roles in making this All Blacks team the champion side it is and we wish you well in the next chapter of your careers". -New Zealand Rugby Chairman Brent Impey

Sources: All-Black(pub)media.com and BBC sports

Nelly Portia

ZUMA GETS A MARCH

Check out @eNCA's Tweet: https://twitter.com/eNCA/status/660034381692723200?s=09

Can't keep up with 'month of march'. #ANCWL #gogomarch and Zuma being the integral subject-

"It's being staged during former ANC president Oliver Tambo's birth month and is to honour him as well as all other leaders of the ANC", said ANCWL spokesperson Toko Xasa.

Thousands of women are marching to the Union Buildings to support president Jacob Zuma and defend the movement in general. They are marching to protect the dignity of president, who was once again painted. The recent portrayal shows president's genitals in the mouth of a woman.

ANC Women's League is leading the march to hand over a memorandum.

Nelly Portia
    

News Rap: NOR NEAR END

News Rap: NOR NEAR END: A March for Economic Freedom



#EFFMarch Check out @mojoIOL's Tweet: https://twitter.com/mojoIOL/status/658981830591389697?s=09 ...

Johannesburg CBD was brought to a halt yesterday, when EFF supporters handed over a memorandum of demand to the Chamber of Mines, Reserve Bank and Johannesburg Stock Exchange.

              Malema leading in front



At the Reserve Bank, Deputy governor Daniel Mminele promised to attend to demands of EFF memorandum.

At the Chamber of Mines their demands entails that of better working conditions, salary for miners and finding for free education from the mine companies are not 'negotiable'-


In Sandton at the Johannesburg Stock Exchange, they demanded that listed companies contribute to a conductive economy. "A minimum of 50% of all the JSE companies should be owned and controlled by workers. This is different from the BEE schemes which empower few individuals", said Julius Malema.



Meanwhile, JSE to analyse EFF demands for economic transformation and free education in 30 days.

Source: iol sap- mail&guardian

Nelly Portia

REPRESSIVE FORCE

Check out @TheCapeArgus's Tweet: https://twitter.com/TheCapeArgus/status/657409073621680128?s=09

STUDENTS STAND UNITED IN SOLIDARITY"

It's a national shut down. Today students from various universities will march to the Union Buildings. Vice-Chancellor and Students Leaders will meet with the president to discuss the #FeesMustFall revolt.

On Wednesday in Cape Town, the parliamentary failed to invite students representatives inside Parliament to engage in the fee hiking protest and find solution. 'If they don't discuss the matter with students', there's no way forward to this.

The government and university Vice-Chancellor on Tuesday said fees would be capped at 6percent for the year. Whereas, students are pushing for a zero increase.

By: Nelly Portia

BOKS' FAREWELL

Will they come-back with the Web Ellis trophy? After months of trubulations in transforming the national squard.  A team of 30-man squad was selected, and Jean de Villiers named the captain.

"Go bokke go, go and excel to make us proud", said Deputy president Cyril Ramaphosa bidding farewell to the Springboks.

Monte Casino, Johannesburg-  A public send-off.  Rugby fans in Johannesburg are bidding the Springboks farewell today, as they leave for the World Cup.

"The amount of green makes you realize what it means to play for the Springboks.  It's not easy, but I can assure you that the 30 men sitting here will make you  proud", said Jean de Villiers.

"Thank you very much for coming. So let's show the world what we can do", concluded the captain.

"Go to England 'Moer hulle dood'. Revive the tears of this nation. Black and White, Yellow and Gold stand behind the Springboks.  Lets raly behind our team.  We are proud of you and go well", said Minister of Sports Fikile Mbalula.

The Boks will be vying for a record third World Cup win after lifting the trophy in 1995 and 2007.  Meanwhile, fans have been warned about fake World Cup travel packages.

The Boks leave for England today and will play their first Rugby World Cup opener against Japan in Brighton on September 18.  They will depart at 17:00pm from the crowd, and catch an overnight flight to London at 20:00pm- OR Tambo International Airport.

Sources: Supersport Blitz

Nelly Portia