The Midday Report with Mandy Wiener

This episode covers several news items, including updates on the President's court application regarding the Palapala report and investigations into Namibian transactions. The program also features an investigative report on the repayment of millions in loans by the Deputy President's son-in-law and a discussion on stabilizing but subdued business confidence in South Africa. Additionally, the episode explores the legal complexities surrounding Feroz Khan's dismissal from the SAPS and follows a South African family searching for their missing daughter in Nepal following devastating floods. The show concludes with an interview with author Sadiqa Fakir, who discusses her book 'Corporate Rebel,' focusing on navigating the workplace as a woman and the importance of authenticity.

This report covers day three of President Cyril Ramaphosa's legal challenge in the Western Cape High Court against an independent panel report recommending impeachment. The proceedings focus on whether the court should set aside the report and the implications for parliamentary accountability regarding the Phala Phala scandal, specifically concerning the presence of US dollars at the President's farm. Legal arguments from Advocate Dalian Porfu and Advocate Tabani Masuku highlight the tension between judicial review and the separation of powers. The court is weighing whether the panel report's alleged defects should invalidate the entire accountability process or if judicial interference would frustrate Parliament's duty to hold the executive to account.

Sports Wrap with Tola Kele Mganga covers a wide range of upcoming sporting events, beginning with the rugby showdown in Soweto featuring the Springboks against the All Blacks and the Springbok women's team. The discussion touches on the intense rivalry between South Africa and New Zealand, as well as recent coaching changes within the women's squad. The episode also provides updates on the Betway Premiership, focusing on Mamelodi Sundowns and Golden Arrows, alongside Premier League football highlights including the London derby between Arsenal and Chelsea. Additionally, the program explores tennis developments at the US Open, discussing favorites like Coco Gauff and Carlos Alcaraz, and reflects on the legendary careers of players like Novak Djokovic. The segment concludes with a look at recent managerial comments in European football and the impact of player mentality on team performance.

An update on the ongoing bail application of suspended Deputy EMPD Chief Julius Mkwanazi and five co-accused in the Brackband Magistrates Court. The case involves the 2022 murder of Manuel Mbense, whose body was found in a dam in Nigel. As both the state and defense have closed their cases, legal arguments are now focusing on whether the accused can be charged with murder via common purpose or merely accessory after the fact. The defense argues that the threat to witnesses has been neutralized following the death of a key individual, and highlights that Mkwanazi's disciplinary proceedings at work are being delayed by his incarceration. The report details the complexities of the prosecution's claims regarding collusion and the legal implications of potential life imprisonment versus lesser charges.

In this episode of Good Things with Brent Lindeke, several stories of heroism and community resilience are shared. The discussion covers a security officer's role in reuniting a hijacking victim with her two dogs after they were abandoned in an industrial area, and the bravery of an 18-year-old matriculant who used his lifeguarding skills to save a man swept away by a spring tide. Additionally, the episode details the devastating fire at the Delphi Greek taverna and the heroic actions of a local chef who entered the burning building to rescue a woman's sister.

An EWN report from Durban covering the pilot National Dialogue taking place in Kwamakuta. The event focuses on critical issues regarding HIV, TB, and access to healthcare. Reporter Tobiso Goba provides an on-the-ground update regarding low attendee turnout, the impact of local weather and grant collection days on participation, and the current status of group discussions involving community members and civil society groups.

This episode features an interview with Zama Zulu, Executive Director at the Masini Usani Development Organization, regarding the uncertain future of South Africa's Basic Education Employment Initiative (BEEI). The discussion explores the significant impact of this program, which has provided work experience to over 200,000 young people and over a million since 2021, and the concerns surrounding the lapse of funding for 2026. Zulu details how the initiative supports youth employment and community development, particularly in rural areas, while also benefiting organizations like his by providing resources to implement literacy programs. The conversation highlights the critical need for clarity on when the program will resume to prevent further loss of vital work opportunities.

An interview with Nobuntu Sibisi, the Acting Executive Director at NEDLAC, regarding the 31st annual summit of the National Economic Development and Labour Council. The discussion covers the role of NEDLAC as a high-level social dialogue institution established in 1994 to bring together government, organized business, organized labor, and community constituencies to address national economic and social challenges. The episode focuses on the summit's theme: advancing inclusive growth and decent work in the age of AI. The conversation explores the dual nature of artificial intelligence, noting its potential to improve innovation and competitiveness while addressing the risks of worker displacement and increased inequality.

In this episode, host Mandy interviews Sadiqa Fakir, author of Corporate Rebel: How to Survive and Thrive as a Woman in the Workplace. The conversation explores the concept of being a corporate rebel—not through breaking regulations, but through having the courage to challenge poor leadership and improve broken processes. Fakir shares insights from her two decades in corporate South Africa, discussing the complexities of personal branding, the necessity of authenticity for women in leadership, and the distinction between mentorship and sponsorship. The discussion also tackles the myth of work-life balance, proposing instead a focus on professional life balance and utilizing micro-moments to maintain personal connections. Fakir offers practical advice for navigating the corporate landscape, emphasizing the importance of being able to articulate one's own story and ambitions to ensure visibility and respect in the workplace.

EWN reporter Tobiso Goba discusses the ongoing search operations in Nepal following devastating floods. The report focuses on the family of Teresha Govinder, one of six South Africans currently missing after traveling to Nepal for a religious pilgrimage to Mount Kailash. Linda Govinder and two other family members are traveling to Nepal to personally visit hospitals, churches, and mortuaries in an attempt to find information regarding their daughter's whereabouts.

Labor law expert Osborne Molotudi joins the program to unpack the dismissal of Major General Feroz Khan by the South African Police Service (SAPS). The discussion explores the legalities surrounding the expedited disciplinary proceedings, the impact of General Khan's alleged incapacity on the hearing process, and his recent attempts to interdict the proceedings via the Labour Court. The episode also examines the potential for an internal SAPS appeal and the technical grounds upon which his initial court application was dismissed.

The episode discusses the current recess of the Midlanger Commission and the recent dismissal of Faroz Khan from the police force. The commission is on break until September 15th due to prior engagements of the commissioners and a need for staff rest. The discussion focuses heavily on Faroz Khan's legal and medical situation, including his attempts to avoid testifying at the commission and the circumstances surrounding his dismissal following a failure to attend a disciplinary hearing. It also touches upon his pending appeal in the labor court.

An analysis of the latest Rand Merchant Bank Bureau for Economic Research survey regarding business confidence in the third quarter. Chief Economist Isaac McClunga discusses the stabilization of business confidence at 38 points, noting that while certain factors like declining oil prices and interest rate stability provided support, underlying subsectors such as manufacturing and new vehicle dealers continue to face declines. The discussion explores the impact of local government elections on service delivery, infrastructure, and policy uncertainty, contrasting national structural reforms with the localized governance challenges facing businesses.

An investigation into the repayment of millions of rands by Paul Mashatile's son-in-law, Nonquelo, to the Gauteng Partnership Fund (GPF). The episode explores the history of failed inner-city housing projects in Johannesburg and the controversy surrounding loans totaling approximately 30 million Rand that were issued to Mr. Nonquelo's companies. Journalist Kyle Cowan discusses the timeline of these loans, specifically highlighting the period when Paul Mashatile served as the MEC for Human Settlements in Gauteng. The discussion covers the recent settlement agreement between the parties and the allegations of preferential treatment regarding the GPF's handling of these specific debts.

This report covers day two of the High Court application in the Western Cape, where the president is seeking to set aside a parliamentary report that led to his impeachment. The proceedings involve arguments from various opposition parties, including the African Transformation Movement (ATM), the EFF, the MK party, and the UAT, regarding the legitimacy of the panel's investigation into potential misconduct and financial transactions involving former advisors.

In this episode of The Hope Dealers, Mandy Wiener visits Skatistan HQ in New Dofontein to explore how skateboarding is being utilized as a tool for social change. Originally modeled after an initiative in Afghanistan, Skatistan provides a safe haven for Johannesburg's youth by combining skateboarding with educational support, youth leadership programs, and creative arts like origami. The episode features Charles Jensen, the executive director of Skatistan, who discusses the organization's mission to create inclusive spaces that foster resilience and confidence. The narrative also highlights personal stories of transformation, illustrating how the sport helps participants overcome challenges, build community, and find a sense of belonging away from negative influences.

This episode of the Midday Report covers major South African news, including the President's legal challenge to the Palapala report and intense testimony at the Madlanga Commission involving former Hawks head Godfrey Lebeer. The report also examines the deteriorating state of South African courthouses and significant criminal justice outcomes, such as the sentencing of a serial killer. Additionally, the episode explores social initiatives like Skatistan's skateboarding program in Johannesburg and an innovative campaign to introduce South African clan names into sign language. Political developments are also featured, specifically regarding Julius Malema's required apology to a judge and the JSC, alongside news on the postponement of Johannesburg's public swimming pool openings.

This episode covers a range of significant South African news, beginning with the official appointment of Pitso Mosimane as the Bafana Bafana coach and the subsequent public debate regarding his suitability. The program also details legal proceedings involving Joe Sibagnoni and arguments at the Madlanga Commission concerning Faroz Khan's medical postponement request. Additional reports include allegations of police involvement in drug theft, an update on the Parliamentary Impeachment Committee, and a look at the 1956 Women's March exhibition. The episode concludes with news on the Alf Kumalo photography exhibition, initiatives to revitalize the Johannesburg High Court, and insights from the Statistician General regarding the Victims of Crime survey findings.

This episode covers the recent decision regarding EFF leader Julius Malema, who is required to tender a formal apology in Parliament to Supreme Court of Appeal judge Koachile Matujane and the Judicial Service Commission (JSC). The ruling follows an investigation by Parliament's Ethics Committee into aggressive questioning conducted by Malema five years ago during a JSC interview. Lawson Naidoo, Executive Secretary at CASAC and the original complainant, discusses the significance of this decision for the integrity of the JSC and the responsibilities of parliamentary representatives serving as commissioners.

In celebration of Deaf Awareness Week, this episode features an interview with Matlau Moloto, a specialist in South African Sign Language and founder of Hands-on Creatives. The discussion centers on a groundbreaking, two-and-a-half-year campaign in partnership with Castle Milkstar to develop sign language representations for seven South African clan names. This initiative marks the first time such an effort has been undertaken internationally. Moloto explains the collaborative process involving linguists, deaf professionals, and the Pan South African Sign Language Board (Pansalp) to translate clan praises into visual signs. The project aims to provide deaf individuals with a sense of heritage and cultural identity by connecting them to their ancestral roots through sign language, bridging the gap between Deaf culture and their specific ethnic lineages.

The City of Johannesburg has announced a postponement of its public swimming pool openings until October. Ntatisi Modinguane, the deputy director of communications for the city, explains that the delay is necessary to ensure all health and safety standards are met, specifically regarding lifeguard staffing levels. A significant challenge involves new municipal staff regulations requiring a Grade 12 qualification for all employees, including seasonal lifeguards. This has created a shortage because many experienced candidates currently hold only a Grade 10 qualification. The city is working to resolve these recruitment issues and aims to have the necessary staff on board by October 1st.

Police National Spokesperson Brigadier Atlenda Maite discusses the successful sentencing of serial killer Rasien Kuna and dismissed police officer Jacob Chejo. The pair received four life sentences for the murders of Lucky and Sabeliwe Makhoshua, a crime motivated by a conspiracy to seize a vehicle. The investigation revealed complex links between the suspects and multiple other violent crimes, including armed robbery, rape, and the murder of Hilary Gardie.

EWN reporter Karinda Jagmohan reports from the Madlanga Commission regarding the testimony of Dr. Advocate Godfrey Libia, former head of the DPCI Hawks. The proceedings focused on the presentation of images allegedly linking members of an organized crime cartel and the examination of WhatsApp messages between Libia and a civilian businessman known as Malcolm X. The testimony addressed Libia's involvement in directing Hawks officers to verify an arrest operation following communications with a private citizen, leading to intense questioning by Justice Madlanga regarding potential collusion.

The Western Cape High Court is presiding over a review application by President Ramaphosa regarding an independent panel report that led to his impeachment proceedings. The President's legal counsel, Advocate Wim Trengrove SC, argues that the report is fundamentally flawed because the panel failed to sufficiently test the veracity of evidence and did not properly consider whether the President acted with willful bad faith. The litigation involves a challenge to the legality of the Section 89 inquiry, with several political parties including the EFF, ATM, MK Party, and UAT opposing the application. The court proceedings also involve technical arguments regarding the disclosure of financial interests and prohibitions on remuneration for members of the executive. The legal debate centers on whether the independent panel correctly interpreted National Assembly rules and properly weighed public domain information against the President's defense.

An interview with Statistician General Rasenga Maloleke regarding the latest Victims of Crime survey released by Statistics South Africa. The discussion explores crime statistics from the perspective of households and individuals, highlighting findings on housebreaking incidents, theft of personal property, and varying levels of safety perceptions among the population. The report also examines individual measures taken to mitigate crime risks and compares these survey findings with official police service reports.

Mandy Wiener hosts an interview with Innocent Mabusella, CEO of Josie Majosie, regarding a new initiative to revitalize the Johannesburg High Court precinct on Pritchard Street. The discussion focuses on the severe deterioration of the facility due to crime and neglect, specifically highlighting critical failures in security, air conditioning, lifts, electricity backup, and water storage. Mabusella outlines a fundraising and resource campaign aimed at engaging the private sector, government, and individual donors. The initiative seeks not only monetary donations but also in-kind support from companies specializing in refurbishment, alternative power, and security to ensure the judiciary can continue delivering justice effectively.

This episode features an interview with Siwa Ngoboza, co-founder of MBR Projects, regarding the exhibition 'The Women's March to Freedom' at FNB Art Joburg. The exhibition commemorates the 1956 Women's March and utilizes the extensive photographic archives of Alf Kumalo to document the pivotal role women played in South Africa's liberation struggle. The presentation highlights the historical significance of figures like Lillian Goyi and Helen Joseph, while showcasing rare, previously unseen images that serve as vital visual indicators of the country's history.

South African Football Association (SAFA) has officially announced Pitso Mosimane as the new head coach of Bafana Bafana. Returning to the role 14 years after his previous stint, Mosimane brings a decorated resume including success with Mamelodi Sundowns and Al Ahly, as well as achievements in grassroots football development. The announcement highlights the significant responsibility placed on the coach following the national team's recent historic achievement of reaching the FIFA World Cup knockout rounds. The report details the current state of the technical team, noting that while established staff members Musa and Garelo are part of the setup, the search for an additional assistant coach is ongoing. The discussion also touches upon Mosimane's preference for a cohesive technical unit and his recognition of the national team's importance to the entire South African population.

This report covers a meeting of the Parliamentary Impeachment Committee regarding the Palapala matter, focusing on legal disputes surrounding the appointment of an evidence leader. The discussion centers on President's objections to Advocate Tandazani Madunsella, citing potential conflicts of interest due to his previous legal advice to an ANC study group and his removal from the Judicial Service Commission in 2022. While Parliament's legal unit found no basis for a real conflict of interest, the committee continues to debate whether a perceived conflict could undermine public confidence. The report also addresses the status of the committee's terms of reference. Although a 54-page draft consolidating political party views exists, members have requested reworkings due to concerns over oversimplification by legal advisors. The meeting's progress is critical as the committee seeks resolution before an upcoming court matter in the Western Cape High Court.

This episode covers ongoing developments at the Midlanger Commission, focusing on the legal battle surrounding Faraz Khan's medical impediment and his request for postponement. The discussion explores arguments regarding the 'white coat effect,' privacy rights of public officers, and allegations of backdated medical certificates involving anxiety and depression. The report also details the testimony of General Godfrey Lebeuf, addressing allegations of police involvement with organized crime figures like Tami Marimuthu. Furthermore, the investigation delves into a significant 2021 cocaine theft at the Port Shepston Hawks offices, examining claims of inside jobs, security failures, and potential corruption within the South African Police Service (SAPS) and the Hawks.

Taxi boss Joe Sibagnoni appeared in the Dalmas Magistrates Court facing charges of extortion and money laundering. The state alleges that Sibagnoni and his co-accused extorted over 2.2 million rand from a businessman. The court proceedings faced delays due to power outages, but the defense raised concerns regarding the lack of a final charge sheet and its impact on the right to a fair trial. The defense has proposed relaxing bail conditions, specifically the requirement for the accused to report to police stations, citing systemic failures in record-keeping. While legal maneuvers to strike the matter from the roll via the Mbombela High Court have been abandoned, key dates for further hearings and responses are set for September and October.

This episode covers major South African news stories, including the Constitutional Court's decision regarding Justice Sisi Khampepe and the TRC cases inquiry. It features an investigation into Stefan Govindraju's alleged 600 million rand syndicate at Tembisa Hospital and updates on the Madlanga Commission involving a KZN Hawks officer. The report also examines the Midlanga Commission's investigation into criminal links, the unexpected court appearance of a struck-off advocate, and an IRR report on how women's voting patterns provide the ANC with a significant electoral advantage. Additionally, the episode discusses the IFP's expansion strategy in eThekwini, the lack of progress regarding the investigation into the suspended Inspector General of Intelligence, and various international sports updates.

A sports discussion covering recent developments in football, rugby, and tennis. The episode examines Tottenham Hotspur's poor start to the Premier League season despite significant transfer spending, alongside positive early impressions of Chelsea under Xabi Alonso and Manchester United's recent victory. In South African football, the MTN8 finalists are confirmed as Orlando Pirates and Mamelodi Sundowns following a controversial match involving Golden Arrows. The conversation also touches on the Springboks' victory over New Zealand, Rassie Erasmus's recent press conference, and predictions for the US Open tennis tournament.

This episode of the Madea Report features an interview with Oren Singh, an investigator from Amabungani, regarding the stalled investigation into alleged misconduct by the suspended Inspector General of Intelligence (IGI), Imtiaz Faisal. The discussion explores a parliamentary letter revealing that the Joint Standing Committee on Intelligence (JSCI) decided to restart their investigation earlier this year, despite having recommended Faisal's suspension over a year ago following allegations including the leaking of confidential information. Singh highlights the lack of transparency and response from the Presidency, the State Security Agency, and the National Intelligence Coordinating Committee. The conversation emphasizes the broader implications for South African democracy, noting that the absence of oversight for intelligence structures—which manage an estimated combined budget exceeding one billion rand—creates significant risks regarding the potential abuse of secret service accounts.

EWN reporter Tobiso Gorba discusses the Inkatha Freedom Party's (IFP) announcement of Mxolisi Hlengwa as its mayoral candidate for eThekwini. As the Deputy Minister of Transport and a former chairperson of SCOPA, Hlengwa represents a high-profile move by the IFP as it seeks to expand its influence beyond KwaZulu-Natal and contest over 250 municipalities in the upcoming local government elections. The episode also covers the competitive landscape in eThekwini, including the ANC's internal candidate applications featuring figures such as current mayor Cyril Guaba and Speaker Sabani Nyawo. The report includes excerpts from Hlengwa's acceptance speech, where he outlines his vision for a functional city driven by accountability and collective leadership.

This episode explores the findings of a new report from the Institute of Race Relations (IRR) titled The Political State of Play, which examines women's voting patterns in South Africa using six years of polling data. Featuring Hermann Pretorius, the IRR's Head of Strategic Communication, the discussion delves into how the ANC maintains its position as the largest party through a consistent double-digit advantage among female voters. The conversation highlights the connection between historical service delivery and female-led households, while also noting recent shifts in voter loyalty. The analysis compares gendered support across various political parties, including the DA, MK, EFF, and IFP, and discusses how specific issues like GBV and housing impact women's political priorities differently than men's.

This news report covers the unexpected appearance of Advocate Manasela Tefo at the Kat Matlala trial in South Africa. Tefo attempted to intervene in the proceedings, claiming to represent an accused individual in the interest of justice, which led to delays and objections from other members of the accused party. The report details the legal challenges facing Tefo, including allegations that he has not paid his professional fees for two years and a press statement from the Legal Practice Council indicating he was struck off the roll in July. The segment concludes with questions regarding how such unauthorized interventions are permitted in high-profile High Court cases.

This report covers developments in the Midlanga Commission regarding KwaZulu-Natal Hawks Officer Dina Govinda. Following a commission ruling, Govinda was ordered to testify openly about his associations with Clive Naika and Tami Marimuthu, individuals linked to alleged criminal activities in Durban. The investigation focuses on unexplained cash deposits totaling over 2.3 million rand into Govinda's account, occurring just prior to police operations against rival tow truck driver Bevan Loftus. The episode explores allegations of corruption within the South African Police Service, specifically concerning officers shielding tow truck drivers involved in drug crimes and gang activity. The broadcast includes a significant telephone recording between Bevan Loftus and Clive Naika that provides insight into the alleged interference in the criminal justice system.

This report covers a significant ruling by the South African Constitutional Court regarding the recusal application of Justice Sisi Khampepe from the TRC cases inquiry. The court delivered a split 5-4 decision, ultimately dismissing the application brought by former Presidents Jacob Zuma and Thabo Mbeki, which allows Justice Khampepe to continue as Chairperson. The legal dispute centered on allegations of apprehension of bias due to the Justice's previous roles within the Truth and Reconciliation Commission and the National Prosecuting Authority. The ruling ensures that the former presidents must now appear before the inquiry to answer for the lack of prosecution regarding apartheid-era crimes. With only 60 days remaining for the commission to submit its final report to President Cyril Ramaphosa, the focus shifts to the potential subpoenaing of the former leaders and the ongoing investigation into allegations of political interference within the NPA.

An interview with Jeff Wicks, News24's Deputy Investigations Editor, regarding the court appearance of Stefan Govindraju. The discussion details the investigation into a vast syndicate of shell companies used to extract 600 million rand from the Gauteng Health Department through Tembisa Hospital. The episode covers the mechanics of the alleged fraud, the use of nearly 100 entities for simultaneous trading, and the ongoing negotiations surrounding a potential plea deal. The conversation also addresses the broader implications for accountability in South Africa, noting the significant delay in criminal charges following the investigation into Babita Diokaran. Wicks discusses the complexities of investigating financial crimes and the challenges faced by the Hawks and the NPA in pursuing actors involved in the Tembisa hospital looting saga.

This episode covers significant legal and investigative developments in South Africa, including updates on the Medicare 24 case involving suspended police commissioner Fani Massimola and testimony regarding taxi industry cartels at the Madlanga Commission. The program also examines allegations of corruption involving Julius Mkhonazi and Kat Matlala, specifically concerning controversial salary payments during suspensions. Additionally, the episode reports on the devastating flash floods in Nepal and the ongoing search for missing South Africans. The broadcast concludes with sports updates across rugby, football, and cricket, followed by 'Good Things with Brent Lindeke,' which highlights stories of community kindness and scientific achievement.

Brent Lindeke, known as the Good Things Guy, presents three uplifting news stories centered on individual initiative and community impact. The episode covers Sandile's act of honesty in returning a lost wallet in Scottborough, 12-year-old Jesse Thurman's leadership project involving the creation of 100 jars of hope for families in need, and Dr. Hafsa Esop's recognition at the South African Women in Science Awards for her research in radiation protection.

This episode covers a wide range of sporting developments across rugby, football, and cricket. The discussion begins with updates on the Springboks versus All Blacks series, specifically focusing on unexpected squad changes and player fitness. The conversation then shifts to the MTN8 semifinals, analyzing the prospects for Orlando Pirates, Mamelodi Sundowns, and Lamontville Golden Arrows. Moving into the English Premier League, the hosts debate the current form of Tottenham Hotspur and Manchester United, discussing transfer needs and defensive concerns. The episode also highlights Chelsea's potential as a title contender and looks ahead to Liverpool's upcoming fixtures. Finally, the program examines the Proteas' cricket tri-series against Namibia and Zimbabwe, noting Coach Shukri Conrad's strategy of building depth for the 2027 ODI World Cup.