The Midday Report with Mandy Wiener

A sports wrap-up featuring Mwanda Mateuza discussing recent football and rugby results. The discussion covers Kaizer Chiefs' performance in the MTN 8 against Golden Arrows, highlighting concerns regarding inconsistency and lack of urgency. The episode also explores the potential appointment of Pitso Mosimane as Bafana Bafana coach and the implications for South Africa's World Cup qualification hopes. Additionally, the segment reviews Banyana Banyana's elimination from the WAFCON quarterfinals following a loss to Morocco and their difficult path ahead through intercontinental playoffs. The wrap-up concludes with rugby analysis, covering the Springboks' recent match against Argentina and an emotional performance by the Stormers against the All Blacks at a full Cape Town Stadium.

This episode explores the ongoing debate within South Africa's electricity sector regarding the liberalization of the energy market and the establishment of an independent grid operator. Energy analyst Matthew Cruz discusses the friction between Eskom, which seeks to protect its assets and creditor relationships, and Independent Power Producers (IPPs) who advocate for rapid democratization and competition to lower electricity prices. The conversation covers the transition from a monopolistic model to a competitive market involving solar, wind, and battery facilities. The discussion also touches upon the historical relationship between Eskom and the South African government, the risks of asset transfer to creditors, and the unique geopolitical necessity of stabilizing the regional power supply in Southern Africa.

The Gauteng Education MEC discusses the interconnected challenges facing the provincial education system, including school violence, overcrowding, and resource shortages. The interview covers critical issues such as the need for 200 new schools, the logistics of feeding and transporting millions of learners, and the impact of theft on school infrastructure. The MEC outlines a multi-tiered intervention strategy involving short, medium, and long-term plans. Key initiatives include budget reprioritization, the implementation of 'triple P's' to achieve significant savings, and increased security measures like police raids and permanent patrols in schools facing crime and bullying.

This episode discusses the recent decision by the National Prosecuting Authority (NPA) to pursue criminal prosecution against Julius Malema regarding the Twekwe case. The discussion focuses on allegations made by Malema against school principal Jakub Petersa following social media reports of an alleged rape at a school in the Eastern Cape. Featuring AFRI Forum spokesperson Barry Bateman, the conversation details how the organization's representations to the NPA led to the decision to prosecute on charges of criminal in urea. The episode also touches upon ongoing investigations involving other political figures and the potential for private prosecution should the state decline further action.

Gauteng Police Commissioner Lieutenant General Tommy Mtumbeni provides an update on the investigation into recent gang violence in Rekha Park that resulted in the deaths of two police officers and two bystanders. The Commissioner confirms a breakthrough in the case, including the arrest of one suspect and the recovery of two R5 rifles used by the South African Police Service. The discussion covers the generational nature of local gangs, specifically mentioning groups such as Vatos Locos and Sour Boys involved in territorial disputes and drug trading. Mtumbeni also addresses community dynamics, noting both the protection of gang leaders by some individuals and the active support for police efforts from community figures like Pastor Lohoko and CPF chairperson Leo Busak.

Senior forecaster Tokelo Chilwane from the South African Weather Service discusses the current intense weather systems impacting South Africa. The discussion covers the simultaneous presence of a cold front and cutoff low, which have brought significant snowfall to KwaZulu-Natal, the Free State, and the Western Cape, leading to road closures in certain areas. The forecast details the progression of these systems, noting that while Gauteng, Mpumalanga, and Limpopo will experience increasing coldness, the current systems are expected to exit the country by Wednesday. The analyst provides insight into the seasonal nature of these weather patterns and the expected gradual improvement in temperatures following this period of extreme cold.

In an interview marking Women's Day, Cassandra Dorosamy, a campaigner at Amnesty International, discusses the ongoing struggles faced by women in South Africa. The discussion highlights the intersection of gender-based violence, femicide, and systemic failures in service delivery. Key issues addressed include high rates of reported rape, the lack of disaggregated crime data from the South African Police Services (SAPS), and how inadequate access to water, sanitation, and electricity exacerbates vulnerability for women living in informal settlements.

EWN reporter Annalisa Fandese discusses the record number of complaints received by the Consumer Ombud, noting a 26% increase to approximately 15,000 complaints in the year ending February. The report highlights that while the office recovered almost 13 million rand for consumers through refunds and replacements, non-cooperation from suppliers has forced the closure of 18 percent of eligible adjudication cases. The discussion identifies defective goods, fixed-term contract cancellations, delivery problems, and online shopping as primary areas of dispute. The segment also touches on the geographic distribution of complaints, with high volumes noted in Gauteng, Western Cape, and KwaZulu-Natal, and mentions ongoing efforts to work with the Department of Trade to enforce legislation.

This episode examines critical political and social developments in South Africa, beginning with the ANC's efforts to finalize its local government election manifesto amidst low polling numbers in Johannesburg. The discussion covers the alarming rise of political violence, including the assassination of an eThekwini Councillor and its impact on democratic participation. The program also reports on labor raids in KwaZulu-Natal revealing poor working conditions, rising tensions within the Cape Town taxi industry, and updates from the Khampepe Commission. The episode concludes with a sports wrap covering Banyana Banyana and the MTN 8, alongside positive stories regarding South African achievers and Johannesburg's global street food reputation.

Brent Lindeke presents a collection of positive news stories from across South Africa. The episode highlights Dr. Siobonga Koza's initiative to provide extra mathematics lessons to schools nationwide, Lukanya Djanbokwe's journey as a Cape Town draughts player preparing for the 2026 Scotland Draughts Festival, and Johannesburg's recognition as one of the world's best cities for street food according to Time Out.

A sports preview discussing the upcoming weekend fixtures across football and rugby. The discussion begins with an analysis of Banyana Banyana's prospects in the WAFCON quarterfinals against Morocco, weighing the team's veteran experience against concerns regarding aging key players and the lack of professional development within the Hollywoodbets Super League. The segment also covers the MTN 8 quarterfinals, highlighting the excitement surrounding the tournament and the upcoming matchups involving Orlando Pirates, Mamelode Sundowns, and Kaizer Chiefs. Finally, the program looks ahead to a significant rugby weekend featuring New Zealand touring South Africa to face the Stormers, as well as the Springboks' clash against Argentina.

An investigation into escalating violence on the Belville-Nyanga taxi route in Cape Town following two separate shooting incidents that left one person dead and two others injured. The report examines the circulation of a threatening voice note on social media targeting taxis on this route and explores the potential for renewed taxi industry conflict similar to previous clashes in Somerset West, Khayelitsha, and Mfuleni. The coverage includes perspectives from local taxi associations regarding increased security measures and calls for law enforcement intervention.

EWN reporter Tobiso Koba provides an on-the-ground report from a factory complex in Hammersdale, KwaZulu-Natal, during recent raids conducted by the Department of Labor, police, and Home Affairs immigration officials. The operation follows President Cyril Ramaphosa's directive to crack down on businesses employing undocumented individuals or those lacking valid work permits. The report details the arrest of 28 foreign nationals and highlights allegations of deplorable working conditions, including sub-minimum wage pay and inadequate ventilation. The episode also features remarks from Deputy Minister of Labor and Employment Jomo Sibiya regarding the government's approach to enforcement. Sibiya discusses the challenge of balancing the need for business investment and employment with the necessity of upholding South African labor laws, emphasizing that investment must not come at the expense of worker rights.

ANC KZN spokesperson Safiso Sonjika discusses the recent assassination of Ward 17 councillor Sibusiso Kuehla, who was shot dead inside his office in Klarvata. The interview covers the ANC's condemnation of the killing, which they characterize as a direct attack on democracy and a consequence of illegal firearms circulating in communities. Sonjika addresses concerns regarding political violence leading up to local government elections, emphasizing the need for police intelligence, community involvement in investigations, and the prevention of targeted assassinations that deter individuals from seeking public office.

The African National Congress (ANC) is currently convening its National Executive Committee meeting to draft and finalize the party's manifesto for the upcoming local government elections. The discussion focuses on the party's strategic priorities, specifically regarding the management of major municipalities like Johannesburg, Ekurhuleni, and Tshwane, following recent polling from the Social Research Foundation that places the ANC at 18% in Johannesburg. The episode explores the delays in the ANC's internal processes, including the late announcement of mayoral candidates compared to competitors like the Democratic Alliance and ActionSA. Reporter Alpha Ramashwana provides insights into the potential candidacy of Reverend Frank Chikane and the impact of slow decision-making structures on the party's ability to campaign effectively on the ground.

This episode covers several significant news reports, beginning with the Madlanga Commission's second report which recommends investigations into various individuals, including a suspended Deputy Police Commissioner. The segment also details testimony regarding IDAC's case selection processes and recent police compliance raids in Pietermlaritzburg. Further reports include legal challenges to the Expropriation Act in the Western Cape High Court and new DIRCO protocols for the international travel of former presidents. The episode concludes with news on the court appearance of suspended Metro Police Chief Julius McWenazi regarding murder charges, and an interview regarding the launch of an independent election observer program.

This episode discusses the launch of the independent election observer program by Citizen Group Groundwork Collective ahead of the local government election on November 4th. Vincent Marker, head of communications at Groundwork Collective, explains the recruitment of 7,000 independent observers intended to safeguard the credibility and integrity of the democratic process. The discussion focuses on the monitoring of 946 highly contested red zone wards where previous elections were decided by slim margins. The program utilizes technology for instant reporting of real-time issues such as voting stations failing to open on time, supply shortages like ink, or improper political regalia at polling sites.

This episode discusses new protocols being drafted by DIRCO regarding the international travel of former South African presidents. Following controversial sightings of former President Jacob Zuma with fugitive AJ Gupta in India, the Department of International Relations and Cooperation is recommending that heads of state disclose trip details, itineraries, and funding sources in advance to prevent contradictions of national foreign policy. The discussion also addresses the recent recall of High Commissioner Anil Suklal for consultation and the necessity of risk assessments for former leaders who may act as opposition figures.

Suspended Ekurhuleni Metro Police Chief Julius Mkwenazi and four others are appearing in the Brakpan Magistrates Court facing serious charges, including murder and defeating the ends of justice. The case involves the alleged 2022 torture and murder of businessman Emmanuel Mbense, whose body was reportedly dumped in a dam. The proceedings follow revelations from the Madlanga Commission, which brought details of the crime to light for the victim's family. The court session faced initial delays due to legal disputes regarding media access. As the state opposes bail under Schedule 6 provisions, the defense argues they lack sufficient information to contest the charges. The report highlights the complexity of the case, including allegations of a cover-up and previous interference with investigators.

This episode examines the ongoing legal battle in court regarding the expropriation act, focusing on the competing arguments between the DA and the President's legal team. The discussion covers the DA's challenge to the legislative process and the rationality of key provisions, contrasted against the President's defense of the act as a vital tool for land reform and modernization of expropriation law. The analysis explores the political implications for the Government of National Unity, highlighting how this litigation reveals a significant fault line between the ANC and the DA regarding property rights and land reform policies. The conversation also addresses specific technical issues, such as a conceded drafting error in the compensation dispute process and the potential for court-ordered remedies.

Police compliance raids in the Pietermaritzburg CBD have resulted in more than 30 arrests and the closure of several shops for operating without correct permits. The operation, conducted alongside private security guards, targeted illegal immigration and the employment of undocumented migrants within the capital city. Reports indicate that while the South African Police Service (SAPS) provided backing during the raids, their departure has left private security personnel facing confrontations with frustrated shop owners.

An analysis of President Ramaphosa's response to the Madlanga Commission's second interim report, which recommends criminal investigations into several individuals including Suspended Deputy National Police Commissioner Lieutenant General Shadrach Sabir and Sergeant Fainin Korsi. The discussion explores the implications of these recommendations for police accountability and the potential role of the CFTT in preparing charges. Te Boho Kass, Chairperson of Public Interest SA, discusses the necessity of following through on these findings to ensure that high-ranking officials are not above the law. The conversation touches upon allegations of off-the-books crime intelligence operations and the historical delays in presidential action regarding commission recommendations.

This episode covers testimony from Matthew Sissoko, the head of investigations at the Investigating Directorate Against Corruption (IDAC), during the Matlanga Commission of Inquiry. The discussion focuses on the internal processes used by IDAC to select cases for investigation and the mechanisms designed to prevent political influence or external manipulation. Sissoko details his role in drafting the case selection criteria manual intended to ensure a defensible foundation for investigations. The report also examines allegations of political interference within IDAC, specifically regarding investigations into crime intelligence officials and the alleged abuse of the secret service slush fund. The testimony highlights concerns over the exclusion of senior investigators from certain probes and potential conflicts of interest involving complainants and witnesses within the directorate.

This episode covers a range of significant South African news stories, including the recall of the High Commissioner to India following controversial meetings and explosive testimony at the Madlanga Commission regarding corruption allegations and political interference. The program also provides updates on a high-profile corruption trial involving a former defense minister. Additionally, the episode features a deep dive into 'The Hope Dealers,' highlighting Twalisa, a community-based initiative in Alexandra providing affordable essentials through a refillable model. The episode concludes with a debate regarding the sustainability and future of women's football in Africa.

In this episode of the Hope Dealers series, Mandy Wiener interviews Myles Kubeka in Alexandra, Johannesburg, regarding Kualisa, a community-driven model designed to address socio-economic disparities. The initiative focuses on reducing plastic waste and saving money by allowing customers to purchase food in small, decanted amounts using their own containers. Beyond food, the platform has expanded into providing solar electricity, water access, and even medication collection services. The discussion explores how Kualisa leverages existing community trust by partnering with women-led organizations to create a sustainable, self-governing service delivery model. The project aims to scale across various townships, using technology to manage inventory and ensure food safety while fostering economic independence within the community.

Former Banyana Banyana player Amanda Dlamini joins the show to discuss the performance of the South African women's national team in the AFCON quarterfinals. The conversation addresses recent debates regarding the quality of women's football and critiques the lack of support compared to the men's game. Dlamini analyzes the team's need to rediscover their tactical identity and confidence ahead of their match against host nation Morocco, while also highlighting how tournament organization and stadium attendance impact the global perception of African women's football.

EWN parliamentary reporter Lindsay Dentlinger reports on the recent vote regarding the appointment of an evidence leader for the President's impeachment inquiry. The committee considered a shortlist of eight advocates, ultimately deciding between advocate Tandazani Madunsela and advocate Kate Hoffmeyer. The final vote resulted in a nine to seven recommendation for Advocate Madunsela, following abstentions from the ANC, Al-Jamaa, and the Patriotic Alliance.

This episode covers explosive testimony from State Advocate Drushantha Ramsami at the Madlanga Commission of Inquiry regarding allegations of corruption and interference within IDAC. Ramsami details a toxic work environment characterized by intimidation, specifically involving Mr. Perumal and the bypassing of investigators. The report also highlights serious allegations concerning suspended Police Minister Senzo Mkhunu, including claims that he may have interfered with investigations into crime intelligence and personally funded travel for a key witness in the 'forklift matter' to consult with an investigator.

This report covers ongoing developments in a high-profile corruption trial involving a former defense minister. The testimony includes details from an interior designer regarding luxury home renovations and expensive imported curtains, as well as evidence concerning meetings held at the Vatukloff Air Force Base. The reporter provides observations on the defendant's presence in court, noting her consistent use of a face mask which obscures her facial expressions, though her attentive behavior and the presence of her family are noted. The trial continues to examine allegations of bribery and financial misconduct.

EWN reporter Tobiso Goba provides a report on a media briefing held by South Africa's Minister of International Relations, Ronald Lamola. The briefing covered several key diplomatic topics, including international law, the upcoming vote for a new United Nations Secretary General, and the economic and humanitarian impacts of global conflicts on South Africa. The Minister also addressed migration patterns across the continent, noting that while the African Union rejected Ghana's attempt to discuss xenophobia in South Africa, migration remains an Africa-wide issue requiring a comprehensive summit. The report further details a diplomatic controversy involving South Africa's High Commissioner to India, Mr. Anu Suklal, following his recent photograph with former President Jacob Zuma and suspected state capture figure AJ Gupta. In response to the embarrassment caused by such uncoordinated visits, the Department of International Relations has introduced a new protocol for the international travel of former presidents to ensure ambassadors are provided with detailed itineraries and guidance.

This episode of the Midday Report covers significant legal and political developments in South Africa, including testimony from Advocate Peter Serunye at the Madlanga Commission regarding prosecutorial irregularities and Minister Gayton McKenzie's appearance before a parliamentary committee concerning FIFA World Cup expenditures. The report also details updates on high-profile corruption trials, the official opening of King Nyabela Hospital in Mpumalanga, and the launch of the SA First NGO. Additionally, the program explores municipal policing challenges through an interview with security expert Eldred DeClack and discusses the Cape Town Mayor's pursuit of investigative powers for Metro Police. The episode concludes with insights into the mission of the March & March movement and listener perspectives on political funding and immigration.

An interview with Jacinta Ngobesi Zuma, leader of March and March, regarding the launch of a new non-profit organization called SA First. The discussion covers the organization's mission to litigate on behalf of South Africans, hold the government accountable for law enforcement, and potentially develop infrastructure such as schools and hospitals. Zuma outlines plans to address issues like police underfunding and the enforcement of laws concerning foreign nationals, while noting that funding will be sought from South African business people and legal professionals offering pro bono services.

This episode features a discussion regarding the City of Cape Town's recent announcement to appoint senior counsel to pursue legal action for granting investigative powers to the Metro Police. Security expert Eldred DeClack joins the program to analyze the implications of this move toward the devolution of policing powers. DeClack examines the legislative boundaries between municipal and national police, arguing that current municipal mandates should focus on crime prevention, regulation, and compliance rather than detective services. He proposes a reimagined model of municipal policing that integrates traffic enforcement and metro police to better address local criminogenic factors.

President Cyril Ramaphosa officially opened the new King Nyabela Hospital in Middelburg, Mpumalanga. The 220-bed facility features state-of-the-art operating theatres and is designed to replace the aging Middelburg Hospital, providing a significant boost to public healthcare access within the Nkangala district. The report covers various health developments, including the Department of Health's preparations for a potential Ebola outbreak through the training of 4,000 healthcare workers and the designation of private and public facilities as isolation centers. Additionally, the episode touches on provincial challenges regarding healthcare pressures caused by migration and ongoing discussions to recoup costs from foreign nationals utilizing local services.

This report covers a significant development in the ongoing trial of Noseviwe Mapisa-Ngakula, involving allegations of corruption and bribery. The proceedings at the Pretoria High Court were interrupted when prominent attorney Zolama Javu, a state witness, walked out of court. The incident centered on issues regarding attorney-client privilege following investigations into a 200 million rand SANDF tender. The report details how Javu's decision to abandon his testimony stems from his discomfort with disclosing details related to his consultations with a Section 204 witness accused of soliciting bribes. The coverage includes insights from EWN reporter Hamoto Modise regarding the impact of this withdrawal on the state's case and the judicial response to the attorney's refusal to testify.

EWN reporter Demakatsu Lashoro provides an update on the trial within a trial involving Wusi Musi Kat Matlala and co-accused Moussake Kana. The report focuses on the testimony of Lieutenant Colonel Tumelo, who disputes claims of assault, torture, and the withholding of constitutional rights during the arrest process. The legal proceedings center on whether evidence obtained at a residence, including a hijacked vehicle and weapons, should be excluded from the main trial due to alleged police misconduct.

Minister Gayton McKenzie appears before the Portfolio Committee on Sports, Art and Culture to address concerns regarding a 31 million South African Rand expenditure related to the 2026 FIFA World Cup delegation. The report covers the Minister's upcoming testimony regarding the roles, designations, and purposes of 151 delegates who traveled to the U.S. and Mexico, as well as details on hospitality costs in Atlanta and Monterey and the funding for the 2010 Legends program. Committee members from the DA, EFF, and ANC are expected to demand a full breakdown of individual expenditures, meeting logs, and the qualifications of those included in the delegation.

This episode covers testimony from Advocate Peter Serunia, Deputy Director of Public Prosecutions, before the Midlanger Commission of Inquiry. The proceedings focus on the investigation into the handling of the 2025 arrests and prosecutions of Crime Intelligence Head Dumsani Kumalo and Dineo Mukwele of Crime Intelligence Technical Support Services. The testimony explores potential irregularities regarding the composition of the prosecutorial team assigned by former IDAC head Andrea Johnson, specifically addressing why a junior prosecutor was selected for a case of such significant magnitude.

The Western Cape High Court is currently hearing legal challenges against the Land Expropriation Act, brought by applicants including the Democratic Alliance, Afri Forum, and the Institute for Race Relations. The litigation focuses on whether specific clauses within the Act are unconstitutional, particularly regarding the balance between private property protection and land reform. Key points of contention include Section 12, which outlines circumstances for expropriation without compensation, and Section 19, which allows the state to proceed with expropriation while compensation negotiations are ongoing. The discussion explores the legal concept of 'reading in' as a remedy for irrationality, a proposal the President has suggested to address flaws in the Act. However, applicants argue that such a remedy lacks clarity and may exceed judicial mandate. The debate also touches upon the broader political impasse regarding the fundamental legitimacy of expropriation without compensation in South African law.

This news report covers ongoing criminal trials, focusing specifically on the case involving former Defence Minister and former Speaker of the National Assembly, Nosibube Mapisa-Nkakula. Reporter Komotsu Modise provides updates on the testimony regarding alleged corruption and bribery involving Numbasa Nzondwa Nzobu. The report details the appearance of Noel Nzobu, a senior military doctor and husband to the accused, whose testimony is central to determining if he can corroborate claims regarding the delivery of bribe money to the minister.

Cape Town Mayor Jordan Hill Lewis has formally declared an intergovernmental dispute with the acting minister of police regarding the refusal to grant investigative powers to the Metro Police. The dispute centers on a long-running battle over the devolution of policing authority and the city's desire to expand the capabilities of its municipal officers to assist the South African Police Service (SAPS).

An interview with Kaiser Ghaniago, spokesperson for the National Prosecuting Authority (NPA), regarding the six-month plan to reset the Investigating Directorate (IDAC). The discussion covers recent announcements from the Justice Minister and the NDPP, Andy Motibi, concerning structural reforms, rebranding, and operational audits. Key focus areas include lifestyle audits for prosecutors and investigators, human resource management, case audits, and addressing governance failures within the entity.

Reporter Demokatsu Lashoro provides an update on the Kat Magala trial within a trial, focusing on the testimony of Captain Sohobela during his sixth day on the stand. The report covers the cross-examination regarding police standing orders from 2015 and potential contraventions of the Criminal Procedure Act, specifically concerning crime scene management and the immediate transport of suspects to police stations. The discussion explores legal arguments surrounding the lawfulness of an arrest, including whether there was reasonable suspicion for a vehicle search and the lack of mention regarding the murder of Amman Swat during the initial arrest. The coverage also touches upon the legality of search and seizure operations conducted without a warrant at the property of Kekane.