BizNews Radio

BizNuus Blitsbrief - 'n kragtige oorsig van die belangrikste plaaslike en internasionale nuus, vinnig en feitlik, binne minute. Bly ingelig met nuus wat saak maak.

African National Congress (ANC) policies are out of step with the majority - between 65 and 79% - of its remaining self-identified supporters. That is the finding of recent polling by the South African Institute of Race Relations (IRR). In this interview with BizNews, Hermann Pretorius who wrote the report says: “…the most hard-hitting finding is that on all of these policies investigated in this report, from merit-based appointments, procurement spending, the Expropriation Act, government focus on jobs and choice-based empowerment programs, the ANC is currently at odds with its own voters by at least a two-thirds majority of its own base.” He warns that unless the ANC acts “rapidly” to bring the party back in touch with its own supporters, it might fall “even lower than the 29.7%, which we are polling them at at the moment”. Pretorius outlines what former President Jacob Zuma's MKP - that supports property rights and merit-based appointments - would have to do to “take another few chunks out of ANC support by going where the ANC supporters actually want the ANC to go”. Meanwhile, he warns that the Democratic Alliance (DA) should not to allow opposing messages to come from the DA in government and the DA in the political party. “I sat next to Minister (Dean) MacPherson on the panel at NAMPO when he took this rather bizarre position of defending the Expropriation Act and undermining his own party's position, trotting out ANC talking point after ANC talking point. It was quite astonishing to hear a minister either lie about a piece of legislation he's responsible for or not understanding it.”

In this episode of the BizNews Briefing, Bronwyn Nielsen tracks President Cyril Ramaphosa's high-stakes visit to Washington for his meeting with Donald Trump. With tensions running high, analysts warn against lecturing the US president, advising instead a strategic, focused approach. We hear from retired US intelligence officer Chris Wyatt, the Hudson Institute's Joshua Meservey, and the Brenthurst Foundation on what's at stake. Plus, Deputy President Paul Mashatile urges farmers at NAMPO to stay the course in South Africa.

Capitalist activist Rob Hersov was on the same Washington-bound plane as some of the SA delegation heading for tomorrow's Oval Office meeting. In this riveting interview with BizNews editor Alec Hogg he shares what insiders tell him about the hot reception American leadership is preparing for Cyril Ramaphosa.

BizNuus Blitsbrief - 'n kragtige oorsig van die belangrikste plaaslike en internasionale nuus, vinnig en feitlik, binne minute. Bly ingelig met nuus wat saak maak.

All eyes will be on the meeting between presidents Cyril Ramaphosa and Donald Trump in Washington on Wednesday. In this interview with BizNews, US intelligence analyst retired Colonel Chris Wyatt slams the composition of Ramaphosa's team. He says neither Agriculture Minister John Steenhuisen nor International Relations Minister Ronnie Lamola is “that credible” in the United States' eyes. “I think both of those are bad decisions that are going to backfire. I don't think that the US government is going to be hoodwinked by … either one of those people.” While Wyatt deems Trade and Industry Minister Parks Tau, “probably not a bad idea”, he questions the inclusion of Minister in the Presidency Khumbudzo Ntshavheni by asking: “You want to send a minister who failed in every previous portfolio. I really don't think that that's the A team. Ramaphosa is taking his B team at best, possibly even a few C or D team members to it.” Meanwhile, he says Ramaphosa “had better have a very good plan….I have termed (it) the single most important meeting in the political life of Cyril Ramaphosa. I think it's more significant than his role in CODESA, more significant than his role when he won the party presidency in December 2017 at the ANC Congress. I think this could make or break South Africa, depending on what happens on Wednesday.”

In this BizNews Briefing, Bronwyn Nielsen previews President Cyril Ramaphosa's high-stakes meeting with Donald Trump, amid domestic uproar over his “cowards” comment about Afrikaner refugees. Hear strong reactions from Neil de Beer, Julius Malema, and Gerhard Papenfus, plus Ret. Colonel Chris Wyatt's conversation with Afrikaner refugee Thea van Staden, detailing her US experience so far. Internationally, focus shifts to Prosus's global tech ambitions and why some analysts think breaking up Alphabet might unlock real value.

“…if the DA (Democratic Alliance) does not…get up and fight, no matter if it costs…the seats of power… if we are going on the trajectory we are today,… the loss of a country will be blamed, not on the ANC (African National Congress)…but because...of the Democratic Alliance not being now able to get up and freely defend us on a surgical basis like they previously had.” This is the warning from United Independent Movement (UIM) President Neil De Beer who says: “…you've got DA ministers sitting in the exact Cabinet of wolves, of the draconian dragons, and having to be silenced because they serve an overlord.” He also gives his take on the members of Team SA facing US President Donald Trump later this week; later this week; lists his reasons for calling President Cyril Ramaphosa “Coward Number One”; and weighs in on Minerals and Energy Minister Gwede Mantashe's “nepo baby” son Buyambo Mantashe. De Beer says that South Africa is falling apart because it “cannot muster any more defense against an ANC who annihilates us in politics, disregards the GNU, absolutely takes us for fools and continues to run this country as if they are still in power.” He says someone will have to “take out an atomic bomb and drop it in” the GNU because “…we are in bigger trouble than what we thought in this GNU. We are better outside than what we are within”. He also notes that even Police Minister Senzo Mchunu has gone quiet. “This is when the dark crude oil of the ANC just slithers down your body and encapsulates you like being in a barrel of oil.” Meanwhile, De Beer comments on the prospects of another candidate for the ANC's next presidency; as well as former Vlakplaas Commander Colonel Eugene de Kock - who “went to jail for many generals and their sins” - remerging from the shadows in the case of the Cradock Four.

Springbok legend Breyton Paulse joins the BizNews Rugby Show to unpack URC playoff drama, Rassie's surprise squad picks, and Jake White's outcry over SA talent heading abroad. Plus, moving tributes to the late Cornal Hendricks and high hopes for the Baby Boks.

A troubling trend for democracy and social discourse is the increasing manipulation of social media platforms like X, where AI-driven algorithms deepen ideological silos and limit engagement with opposing viewpoints. The anonymity of pseudonyms has further enabled nano influencers - often quietly funded - to shape narratives without disclosing their financial backers. In South Africa, recent revelations have exposed multiple political campaigns leveraging paid influencer networks to manufacture public sentiment online. In response, Ludré Stevens is launching Opino, a social media platform positioning itself as Europe's independent, bot-free space. In an interview with BizNews Stevens described Opino - set to launch publicly on 1 June - as a platform with “absolutely no bots, complete transparency, where real people and real companies can interact.” The app will require influencers who receive payment to declare it, ensuring authenticity and preventing covert sponsorships. Stevens emphasised that while Opino shares similarities with platforms like Threads, Twitter, and Bluesky, its defining principles are “no bots, no AI, and no manufactured outrage - just back to basics.”

The African National Congress (ANC) had a strong by-election night last night. In this interview with BizNews, Election Analyst Wayne Sussman says it was “either their second best night or you could say equal their best night since 2024.” In Soweto, they had “resolute” support - despite uMkhonto weSizwe's MKP) Floyd Shivambo and Julius Malema of the Economic Freedom Fighters (EFF) campaigning there. The ANC also had “solid” support in the uMgungundlovu district, (the second most populous district in KwaZulu-Natal) where, in 2024, MKP won 50% of the vote. And the ANC withstood an onslaught from the Patriotic Alliance (PA) and the Namakwa Civic Movement to clock up another win in the Northern Cape, where - since the 2024 election - it has won four wards off opposition parties. Sussman identifies Premier Zamani Saul as a possible future party leader. “If I…was the ANC, I would look strongly, not just at him for a leader at the next National Elective Congress, but also someone who's clearly doing something right…” As for the Democratic Alliance (DA) holding on to a ward Stellenbosch, he notes the 7% voter turn-out and points out that “they have some work to do”. Sussman also shares his take on the most competitive races in the next round of by-elections on May 28.

The 59 (not 49) Afrikaner “refugees” that arrived in America earlier this week are under “a lot of pressure”. So says US intelligence analyst (Retired) Colonel Chris Wyatt who is in regular contact with some of them. “They are located in multiple States around the country right now. I will not disclose their locations because of the reprehensible conduct of some media in South Africa and the United States and the social media doxing that's going on, people committing POPI violations and other criminal actions. But what I can tell you is that they're under a lot of pressure. And if they're smart, they're staying off social media because people are trying to expose their families back here and put them in physical harm or jeopardy.” As for the allegation that at least one of the refugees exaggerated threats, Col Wyatt says: “The United States government does investigations into refugees….they get vetted very seriously. So if any of these people have defrauded the US government, they will be sent back.” He also hits back at the African National Congress (ANC) for rejecting claims of ethnic victimisation, and calling it “a cowardly political construct” instead. “People have a real fear. And the government dismissing their concerns is repulsive.”

BizNuus Blitsbrief - 'n kragtige oorsig van die belangrikste plaaslike en internasionale nuus, vinnig en feitlik, binne minute. Bly ingelig met nuus wat saak maak.

In this BizNews Briefing, President Cyril Ramaphosa pushes back against claims of white Afrikaner persecution, following their controversial resettlement in the US under a Trump-era refugee programme. Gayton McKenzie demands that his department prioritise South Africans for jobs, rejecting foreign hires. Economist Dawie Roodt shares his expectations for next week's national budget, while Afrimat CEO Andries van Heerden discusses a challenging year of financial results. The SABC appeals for R7.3 billion to fulfil its public broadcasting mandate, drawing criticism for diverting commercial revenue. On the global front, Tencent bets big on AI integration despite short-term profit pressures.

Afrimat CEO Andries van Heerden joins Alec Hogg to unpack the group's worst results in decades, driven by a perfect storm of collapsing iron ore prices and early Lafarge losses. He remains bullish on the cement acquisition, touts a new ultra-low carbon product, and outlines progress on Transnet's rail recovery and Afrimat's rare earth ambitions. Van Heerden shares cautious optimism on SA's infrastructure outlook under a new political era.

BizNuus Blitsbrief – 'n kragtige oorsig van die belangrikste plaaslike en internasionale nuus, vinnig en feitlik, binne minute. Bly ingelig met nuus wat saak maak.

Joburg's rowdy mining camp excesses appear to have returned in the drama surrounding the alleged manipulation of Mantengu shares, whose CEO accused socialite Zunaid Moti and his company insider of manipulating the stock to near destruction. Mantengu's CEO Mike Miller shares the sordid story with BizNews editor Alec Hogg.

Millions of South Africans were plunged into peak-hour darkness again last night. In this interview with BizNews, Kevin Mileham, the Democratic Alliance (DA) spokesperson on Electricity and Energy, says that ESKOM's fleet is running at 28% unplanned outages - and that “this last week, they've burned 210 million rands worth of diesel to keep the lights on.” As for sabotage, Mileham says: “I think that we've come a long way in that respect, that there's less, to use that word, sabotage than there was before… and I think that certainly the department and ESKOM are taking steps in that regard to weed those people out and take the necessary action against them. It's not happening as quickly as I would like, but there are steps being taken.” ESKOM is also battling the financial impact of corruption . “I think one of the challenges that we've got is, and again, I'm going to emphasise State Capture as being part of the problem, that we had a massively corrupt entity where things ran years over time, cost more than double what they were budgeted for. And as a result, ESKOM's balance sheet took a huge hammering.” Meanwhile, Mileham expresses concerns around the National Transmission Company which he says “needs to be really fully independent…it needs to be out of ESKOM's control and more independent minded so that there's a level playing field between ESKOM and the private sector generators.” He notes that ESKOM still behaves in a “very monopolistic fashion; that they aren't willing to play fairly and competitively with other role players”.

In today's BizNews Briefing episode, Alec hogg explores the top stories of the day. Load shedding is back, with the DA spokesperson on electricity Kevin Mileham weighing in; JSE-listed Mantengu Mining accuses high-profile figures of market manipulation in a scandal that raises concerns about regulatory capture; Donald Trump shocks Riyadh with trillion-dollar deals and also, Palantir insights from our partners at the Economist.

BizNuus Blitsbrief – 'n kragtige oorsig van die belangrikste plaaslike en internasionale nuus, vinnig en feitlik, binne minute. Bly ingelig met nuus wat saak maak.

In this wide-ranging interview with Bronwyn Nielsen, Magda Wierzycka, CEO of Sygnia Limited, offers a candid assessment of South Africa's political and economic landscape. She discusses US–South Africa relations, the impact of Trump-era policies, challenges within the Government of National Unity, and the critical need for meaningful engagement with business. Wierzycka is clear-eyed about the limitations of current policy approaches, including the unworkable National Health Insurance (NHI) plan, and highlights investor skepticism rooted in uncertainty. Despite these challenges, she expresses cautious optimism about South Africa's future and emphasises the importance of pragmatism, reform, and private sector inclusion in policy-making.

The man who narrowly lost out on becoming the US's ambassador to South Africa provides a taste of the excitement he would have generated in this feisty interview. Joel Pollak offers an alternative view to the SA government criticism of the first 49 Afrikaner refugees who arrived in Washington yesterday. He also provides insight into how the Trump Administration views the issue in this discussion with BizNews editor Alec Hogg.

In today's episode, Bronwyn Nielsen speaks to Sygnia CEO Magda Wierzycka on her views about US President Donald Trump and whether South Africa is making the most of its G20 presidency. Alec Hogg interviewed Joel Pollak, the man who nearly became the US ambassador to South Africa, who defends the Afrikaner refugees arriving in Washington. Ian Cameron strongly criticizes the acquittal of VIP protection officers, slamming the disciplinary process as flawed. Plus, international updates today include US Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent on China tariffs and Hamas's release of the last American hostage in Gaza ahead of Trump's Middle East visit.

Die eerste groep Afrikaner-vlugtelinge het na die VSA vertrek onder 'n omstrede Trump-era program wat opspraak verwek. Gardenroute juweel Knysna, se dienslewering het begin verbrokkel onder ANC-koalisiebewind. Adjunkpresident Mashatile se lyfwagte is vrygespreek ná die gewelddadige aanval op ongewapende SA burgerlikes. Internasionaal het China en die VSA ooreengekom om tariewe te verlaag, terwyl Rusland 'n nuwe hommeltuigaanval op Oekraïne loods, te midde van verskille oor vredesonderhandelinge.

Ian Cameron, the Chairperson of Parliament's Portfolio Committee on Police, has been the target of a virulent attack by The Police and Prisons Civil Rights Union (POPCRU) for labelling as “thugs” Deputy President Paul Mashatile's VIP Protection officers who were involved in a “brutal” assault on “innocent” civilians next to the N1 in Johannesburg in 2023 - but were acquitted following an internal disciplinary hearing - despite video evidence. “In a parliamentary context, as part of my constitutional duty to do oversight, I'm not going to allow any union to make me look or seem or feel like just being a rubber stamp that needs to simply approve anything they say or do. There's something very wrong with the process that was followed here and it's critical for us to dissect it.” As for the mysterious deaths of four police officers whose bodies were found in the Hennops River recently, Cameron says: “I do find it suspicious, and it's not to cast doubt on any part of an investigation or anything like that, but it is an extraordinary kind of event….So it would be very interesting to understand more of the depth and context as to what exactly those members were involved with.” Cameron also gives an update on the biggest issues his committee is currently grappling with, including the proposed regulatory amendments of PSiRA that “in essence mean that in a very arbitrary way, a security company can lose its function overnight”.

In a shifting global financial landscape marked by volatility and rising investor caution, Westbrooke Alternative Asset Management's Yield Plus fund is offering a compelling solution. Targeting private credit opportunities in the UK, the fund delivers a stable, net return of approximately 8% in hard currency, underpinned by asset-backed loans and rigorous risk management. With over £180 million under management and a seven-year track record without a down month, Yield Plus is increasingly seen by South African investors as a reliable alternative to traditional cash or bond holdings. Structured for tax efficiency and shorter durations, it meets the growing demand for predictable income.

In today's BizNews Briefing, Alec Hogg unpacks a wave of major developments - from ASP Isotopes' remarkable rise from Pelindaba labs to NASDAQ and a pending JSE debut, to the DA's renewed push to oust Johannesburg's mayor. He also covers the uproar over Deputy President Mashatile's bodyguards, Afrikaners seeking asylum in the US, and promising investment insights featuring Pick n Pay, Boxer, Apple and Disney. Plus, signs of a thaw in US-China trade tensions and the local implications.

In his latest Sunday Show, Neil De Beer, the President of the United Independent Movement (UIM) gives BizNews viewers his take on Deputy President Paul Mashatile's pledge to protect the R100 billion Transformation Fund from corruption, the acquittal of his VIP Protection Officers of assault in an internal police disciplinary hearing - despite video evidence; POPCRU's call for Democratic Alliance (DA) MP Ian Cameron to be removed as the Chairperson of the Police Portfolio Committee because he called these bodyguards “thugs”. De Beer casts a Vote of No Confidence in President Cyril Ramaphosa following his launch of the second phase of Operation Vulindlela. “He cannot deliver… if you…look at the past 10 years where this man has basically had the reign of this country, it's a disaster.” De Beer laments the “mass economic emigration” of South Africans, not just Afrikaners poised to leave for America in the coming days. Meanwhile, he vows to stay in South Africa - with a call to remove the African National Congress (ANC), “this treacherous government, and the people that continue to slaughter the carcass of such a good country” by beating them at the ballot box. “…we can't go on like this; it's not possible”.

ASP Isotopes CEO Paul Mann is building laser-powered nuclear facilities in South Africa to produce rare isotopes critical to quantum computing, cancer treatment, and advanced semiconductors - taking on Russian dominance and reshaping global supply chains, all from Pretoria.

Senekal, a small town in South Africa's Free State, became the centre of racial tensions in 2020 following the murder of farm manager Brendin Horner. In response, local leaders formed the Senekal/Mtwabeng Community Forum to encourage dialogue and reconciliation. Among those drawn to the town's transformation was filmmaker Frans Cronje, brother of former cricketer Hansie Cronje. Leaving Cape Town, Cronje joined efforts to help a team of volunteers to rejuvenate Senekal and he decided to establish a film in the Eastern Free State. In an interview with BizNews, Cronje detailed how the teams started repairing the dilapidated infrastructure in Senekal including the local swimming pool and 5,000 potholes. While the initiative has received widespread support, he said there were ongoing challenges in bridging political divides. Cronje has big plans to establish Senekal as a filming destination. His latest project—a gladiator film set in fifth-century Rome—marks the first step in his broader vision to turn the town into a production hub for Christian-themed films.

In this week's BizNews Rugby Show, SuperSport Schools commentator and "rugby encyclopedia" Niels Momberg returns to talk all things rugby with insider Rory Steyn and co-host Patrick Kidd. With Round 17 of the United Rugby Championship kicking off today, the trio dissects the playoff permutations, offers fearless predictions (including a few upsets!), and debates the psychology behind Leinster's recent failures. Momberg goes deep on SA's schoolboy rugby scene, spotlighting prodigies like Paarl Gim's Markus Muller and Grey College's Ethan "Tank" Adams, while also previewing two massive clashes: Paul Roos vs Paarl Gimnasium and Grey College vs Paarl Boys' High. From URC playoff drama to rising stars and flawed scheduling at SA Schools level, this episode is packed with insight, banter, and bold calls you won't want to miss.

As the Afrikaans language turns 100 today amid great turbulence in Afrikaner politics, Leon Louw, CEO of the Freedom Foundation, expresses doubt that any real Expropriation Without Compensation (EWC) will ever happen in South Africa against white commercial Afrikaans farmers. “I think that probably nothing will come of it. I would bet on it that there will be little or zero Expropriation Without Compensation of a true asset, commercial investment; maybe some abandoned land, maybe some derelict land somewhere that might be some sort of token. They will try a few and they will be so tied up in the Constitutional Court for years and years and years, that'll be the end of it.” He points out that Expropriation Without Compensation of black-owned properties “takes place constantly all the time and has done for a long time”. “It's black people… who don't have land title…” and can't afford to fight it in court. Louw, who is currently working on new research with statisticians, also urges people to get the “actual” statistics on the "real" distribution of wealth and income and land in South Africa. “And it's looking much different from what the popular rhetoric is.” Meanwhile, he advises Afrikaners what to be working and lobbying for that will make black South Africans “become their best friends”.

The accelerating drift of Joburg, whose implosion from a “world class African city” to widespread dysfunction is overseen by an ANC-led coalition, is well documented. After hitting roadblocks, the Democratic Alliance's approach of demanding dissolution of the council to trigger a re-run of the 2021 election was this week replaced by one with greater odds of success. DA Caucus leader Belinda Kayser-Echeozonjoku explains the new strategy to BizNews editor Alec Hogg.

In this BizNews Briefing, Bronwyn Nielsen covers Cape Town's credit rating win under Mayor Geordin Hill-Lewis, a rare meeting between Afrikaner leaders and ANC NEC members, and a legal challenge by the DA against employment equity quotas. Russell Lamberti and Prof. Koos Malan discuss whether the courts can save South Africa, while Fikile Mbalula comments on judicial power and leadership ambitions. Plus, Bloomberg unpacks Uber's latest earnings.

Litigation has become the go-to weapon to fight unconstitutional laws, lack of service delivery, abuse of power. In this interview with BizNews, constitutional law expert Professor Koos Malan says: “…we have such large scale malfunctioning of the executive, such large scale malfunctioning of the administration, covering each and every aspect of South African society and also having an effect on each and every possible right, specifically constitutional rights, that one can conceive of, that people are actually forced to go to the courts in order to try to seek help.” However, he warns that a court order amounts to “something like a wish” because “the moment you deal with this systemic problem, the courts are actually not in position to give any remedies, to give any real help, any real proper interference that could steer the executive, steer the relevant organ of state, whatever, in a positive direction simply because of the fact that the state has to such an extent crumbled, to use that strong word, that eventually the court's order won't mean anything.” Instead, Professor Malan hails the private sector for “superbly standing in for the failure of the State - also within the justice system”. Professor Malan further describes how the judiciary is “always somehow in step with the dominant elite” - and says: “…let's say for a moment, the African National Congress becomes weaker and the Democratic Alliance becomes stronger. Then the political landscape changes and the changed landscape implies that the Constitutional Court has more leeway, more liberty, not to take into account those risks that might be involved…”

“Robust” talks have been held between top Afrikaner leaders - including Kallie Kriel, Flip Buys and Dirk Hermann, and African National Congress (ANC) NEC members. In this interview with BizNews, Dr. Theuns Eloff of the Afrikaner Leadership Network describes how the meeting was set up and facilitated the Pan Africanist Congress (PAC). Although there is an agreement between the parties not to comment on the contents of the discussions until there is concrete progress to report, Dr Eloff described the talks thus: “…it was difficult, and it is clear that there are misunderstandings, misperceptions on both sides. And we basically said, despite that, we may not like each other, but...we owe the country this to go forward and look for solutions.” He says the fact that “the Trump Sword is hanging over the country and also over the ANC …brings a bit of urgency…” Meanwhile, today and tomorrow, the three parties will nominate four people each to serve on a smaller task team to iron out some of the issues in the process - and report back in two weeks. “Obviously, we as the African Leadership Network also do it for the Afrikaner community and other minorities, but we also do it for the country because if we don't get this thing with the Americans right, as a country we're in trouble.”

California-based Saffer Anthony Ginsberg, who has been in the US for a quarter century, met with political movers and shakers in Washington to understand what Pretoria must do to avoid the massive job losses that would accompany a proposed 30% Trump Tariff to be implemented in two months. The successful financial services entrepreneur explains it starts with appreciating the radical mindset change in Washington: Capitol Hill is now all about structurally transforming the US's economic path. To do this it has adopted a commercial-first mindset and a determination to reverse China's soft wins which is has enjoyed for decades. He says countries which appreciate deal-making is the US's new diplomacy, have sent A-Teams to Washington, eschewing politicians for business-heavy, highly educated and globally-sussed patriots. He points to the example of Tanzania's Ambassador, former WEF Africa head Elsie Kanza, as one of those “running rings around” her counterparts and wracking up big gains for her country. Ginsberg spoke to BizNews editor Alec Hogg.

In today's BizNews Briefing, host Alec Hogg shares highlights from powerful interviews with Cape Town executive mayor Geordin Hill-Lewis and California-based Anthony Ginsberg of GinsGlobal; and we hear from BizNews partners Bloomberg and the Financial Times about what is possible if Pretoria gets into step with global changes - a mining boom for rejuvenated Argentina; a successful White House meeting for Canada's new PM; and confirmation that trade talks between the US and China start this week in Switzerland.

One of the brightest stars in South Africa's political firmament, 38-year-old Geordin Hill-Lewis opens up here on how his current responsibility - the City of Cape Town - is surprising everyone on the upside. The executive mayor celebrated a huge win this week after getting ratings agencies to differentiate between his city and its South African peers: something the former shadow Minister of Finance has pursued for years because of the massive impact lower borrowing costs bring. In this interview with BizNews editor Alec Hogg he also addresses Frans Cronje's warning about embracing possible political Trojan Horses (CT's ANC and EFF leaders recently crossed to the DA); and shares why he'd do whatever necessary to earn Cape Town a ‘free pass' from Washington.

Just as the Democratic Alliance (DA) was making good gains in the long-turbulent township of Kayamandi, Stellenbosch, its Mayco member for Community Services and PR Councillor Xolile Kalipa was gunned down. In this interview with BizNews, Koos Steyn, the DA's West Region Chairperson, says although he does not wish to speculate, from what people had said, “it really looked like it was some kind of a hit”. The killing has unleashed an atmosphere of fear amongst other DA councillors who “…at this stage...are really not actively staying in Kayamandi because they're scared to…” Steyn hailed the slain Kalipa as somebody who “was fighting for the DA in many, many ways…we were really starting to move in gaining support in Kayamandi as the Democratic Alliance. And it's really the work of people like Kalipa.” Steyn adds: "...the only way you can really stop it when something like this happens is to get to the truth of it. Why it happened, who is behind it, and get those people out of the streets”.

In this episode of the BizNews Briefing, Alec Hogg spotlights a riveting interview between Chris Steyn and former prosecutor Glynnis Breytenbach, who discusses the absence of consequences for state capture crimes, and her call for a justice-led political reset. Breytenbach also reflects on the country's “republic of no consequences” and the first Zondo-related prosecution attempt. Internationally, Trump's proposed tariffs on foreign films send shockwaves through South Africa's booming movie industry, while his broader economic nationalism stirs political unease from Australia to Canada. Also featured: Apple under pressure and a compelling Economist podcast on the double-edged sword of plastics.

The State's failure to both prosecute Apartheid-era crimes and effectively pursue Zondo Commission State Capture accused, is back in the spotlight. For decades, allegations have persisted that the National Party (NP) and the African National Congress (ANC) cut a secret deal to avoid prosecutions on both sides following testimony at the Truth and Reconciliation Commission (TRC). In this interview with BizNews, Advocate Glynnis Breytenbach of the Democratic Alliance (DA) describes President Cyril Ramaphosa's belated decision to establish a Commission of Inquiry as a “desperate measure to avoid all of this dirty laundry being trawled through the public eye”. As for the “showcase” trial of former Vlakplaas commander, Colonel Eugene de Kock, she says: “..one always felt that he was kind of the scapegoat, because we all know that while he was busy doing those things that were so absolutely appalling, he was being lavishly praised by his superiors in the police and awarded medals for, amongst other things, bravery...And those people calling the shots have never been held to account which is both unsatisfying and deeply unfair.” Breytenbach is equally incensed about the failure to “see even one” notable State Capture prosecution. As for claims of “political interference” there as well, she says: “The last time interference was mentioned was with the access to the database of the State Capture issue; there was..a peripheral reference to interference. But…when we (Parliament's Portfolio Committee) asked about it, we were told, well, we prefer to keep it in-house because we don't want to make a fuss. Well, that's just not my approach to things, I'm afraid.”

In today's BizNews Briefing, Dr Frans Cronjé emphasises the urgent need for the Government of National Unity to restore investor confidence and catalyse fixed-investment spending. As President Cyril Ramaphosa prepares to meet with US President Donald Trump, retired Colonel Chris Wyatt offers strategic counsel on advancing bilateral relations and addressing outstanding trade and security concerns. And in a candid exchange, the former Western Cape Premier Helen Zille reflects on whether she would consider a bid for the presidency if called upon.

In the latest edition of the Sunday Show with Neil De Beer, the President of the United Independent Movement (UIM), he speaks about the role of money in the race for the next president of the African National Congress (ANC) just as billionaire Patrice Motsepe emerges as another likely contender. De Beer looks at the continuing “onslaught” from former President Jacob Zuma, whose MKP has taken another ward off the ANC. He points out the big differences in the strategies of MKP and the Economic Freedom Fighters (EFF) to the issue of Afrikaner self-determination. Following the latest EFF march on an Afrikaner community, he also warns: “I fear one morning, that when they go to the gates of such a place, they're to meet with arms. The police are going to be in the middle and people are going to get very cross…If one person in that group shoots, we will have a Marikana.” De Beer slams President Cyril Ramaphosa's move to appoint a Commission of Inquiry to establish why Apartheid-era crimes - testified to at the Truth and Reconciliation Commission (TRC) - have not been prosecuted, saying: “We are still sitting with Zondo. So, we can go dig up old cows, but we can't lock up the present.” He also examines the suspicious circumstances surrounding the deaths of four members of the South African Police Service (SAPS) whose bodies ended up in the Hennops River. And he hails Mr Justice Nathan Erasmus who handed down a guilty verdict last week in the case of the missing Joshlin Smith. “Make this man the Judge President…What a jurist.”

As strained relations between South Africa and the United States continue to hog the headlines, US Intelligence Analyst retired Colonel Chris Wyatt warns that President Cyril Ramaphosa will have to cut a deal with President Donald Trump to repair the discord. “I think that he's going to have to make some kind of concession vis-a-vis Afrikaners or minority South Africans of some sort.” However, that could cost Ramaphosa support in his own party. “I think that Ramaphosa is in a difficult spot and I can't wait to see what comes from this conversation between Trump and Ramaphosa because it could go well, it could be a disaster or it could be a complete disaster and I'm concerned that we might be a complete disaster. If Ramaphosa goes to America and tries to lecture Trump, he'll be shown the door like Zelensky was.” Meanwhile, Wyatt also warns Afrikaners who want to gain refugee status in America, to keep quiet about their plans. “…there are people with malicious intent on the left and the right politically in South Africa who are not happy about this refugee programme, Afrikaners who don't like it and others on the other side of spectrum who don't like it. So my advice to those people is to shut your mouths, loose lips, sink ships, World War II phrase…you have to have what we call operational security in the military.” Wyatt further decribes the unprecedented racial tension he has witnessed on his latest visit to South Africa. “This whole situation with the refugee programme causing all kinds of consternation and it's emboldening people. But it's not just the refugee programme. In my view, it's also the expropriation without compensation.”

From overcoming immense personal challenges to becoming a global autism advocate, Dr. Emile Gouws' resilience and ‘vatbyt' is remarkable. Diagnosed at three and largely nonverbal until 15, Gouws with the help of his mother and a determined team defied expectations to earn a PhD and is now a postdoctoral fellow at the University of South Africa. He also secured a role in the Commonwealth Disabled People's Forum and helped shape South Africa's response to the UN on disability rights. Gouws told Biznews in an interview that he also found a sense of belonging in the Special Knead Café in Sandton that also has a Facebook and Instagram page for awareness and support, which recently organised a march for neurodivergent voices on South Africa's disability bill to the Union Buildings in Pretoria. Now, he's calling for a Ministry of Disability and the adoption of the Sunflower Lanyard at clinics, airports and supermarkets to support those with hidden disabilities.

In this week's BizNews Rugby Show, insider Rory Steyn and co-host Patrick Kidd are joined by the show's favourite European rugby expert, Tim Cocker from Eggchasers Rugby, to unpack the biggest talking points ahead of the Investec Champions Cup semi-finals. From Leinster's pursuit of a URC-Champions Cup double to the enormous impact of Antoine Dupont's absence at Toulouse, the trio explore what's at stake for Europe's top clubs. Plus, rising South African star Sacha Feinberg-Mngomezulu gets a mention, Cocker and Steyn debate how to fix the rugby calendar, and Cocker breaks down what makes French and Irish rugby unique. Don't miss these bold predictions, insights into the standout players, and a look ahead to a potentially seismic weekend of rugby in Dublin and Bordeaux.

In this candid and wide-ranging interview, Helen Zille, Chair of the DA Federal Council, speaks with Bronwyn Nielsen about South Africa's current political landscape, the challenges of coalition governance, and the urgent need for pro-growth, pro-employment economic reform. Zille provides clarity on the DA's stance regarding the VAT increase, the Expropriation Act, and the role of the private sector in driving development. She also reflects on the personal toll of political leadership, her career journey from journalism to politics, and the future of the Government of National Unity. A compelling insight into South Africa's political crossroads and the DA's strategic vision.

In this powerful assessment of SA's recent political drama, SRF chairman Dr Frans Cronjé suggests we've witnessed a historic watershed where “nice guy” politics finally bit the dust. By succeeding through employing previously absent ruthlessness, he says the Democratic Alliance is sure to enjoy the sensation and likely to adopt a far more aggressive approach in future. That could be exactly what SA needs to reverse destructive economic policy and start turning around a sinking economic ship. He spoke to BizNews editor Alec Hogg.

In this BizNews Briefing, Finance Minister Enoch Godongwana responds to resignation calls, Helen Zille shares DA strategy ahead of May 21, and Dr. Frans Cronje weighs in on shifting GNU dynamics. Plus, market insights on Microsoft and Meta, and a fresh look at rugby's crowded calendar.

Freedom Front Plus leader Corné Mulder tells BizNews founder Alec Hogg the Government of National Unity has 50 months to save South Africa — but warns time is running out to rebuild trust, stabilize politics, and pivot the economy.