Carte Blanche: The Podcast

In the very final episode of The WholeWeek Wrap with Daily Maverick and Carte Blanche, we reflect on some of the biggest moments of 2024 and celebrate everything that South Africa has to offer. Carte Blanche Website · Chat on X · Chat on Facebook

Bullying BRICS – Donald Trump says it's the dollar or nothing. Later, shrinking economies and shrinking inflation. We make sense of it all. Then, government sets its sights on banks and budget airlines. But why now? And why South Africans are semigrating to the Windy City. But first: as evidence mounts against the now-former Minister of Justice, Thembi Simelane, analysts and various organisations are crying foul of President Ramaphosa's failure to act more decisively. Thembi Simelane Investigation - Daily Maverick & News24 · Carte Blanche Website · Chat on X · Chat on Facebook

The President's Phala Phala predicament continues. Later, is honesty the best policy when it comes to Members of Parliament? Also, Table Mountain's crime problem makes headlines again. Then, vapers beware – new proposed laws causes some serious blowback. And Olympics in South Africa? Gayton says, "Yes!" But first, how the mighty have fallen… We look at the case against Danny Jordaan. Table Mountain Crime Map · Danny Jordaan Timeline · Phala Phala Timeline · Carte Blanche Website · Chat on X · Chat on Facebook

Decriminalising illegal mining? Some say that's the solution to our zama zama problem. Then, the EFF is on life support – can it survive the mass exodus? Also, how many ships do you need to make a navy? Just one, it seems. And why doing something good could land you in court… But first – a massive study into South Africa's gender-based violence crisis was published last week. With nearly 20 000 households surveyed – consisting of roughly 50% men and 50% women from all walks of life – it serves as a serious wake-up call to government. Carte Blanche Website · Chat on X · Chat on Facebook

Out-of-control incidents of food poisoning push the President to address the nation. Then, violence erupts once more in Mozambique. Later, the SAPS is watching – your TikToks, that is. But first, as taps begin to run dry in parts of Johannesburg, some are sounding the alarm… With about 35% of the metro's drinkable water lost due to leaks and illegal connections, city management is quickly running out of road to turn things around. Carte Blanche Website · Chat on X · Chat on Facebook

Cape Town's criminal underworld is up for grabs following Mark Lifman's murder. Then, caught in a debt spiral – it's time for government to clean house. Later, spam calls be gone! And how well do you know your national symbols? But first: it's been called one of the biggest, most dramatic political comebacks in recent history. As Donald Trump wins a second term in the Oval Office, his election victory reveals a lot about the American voter. With just over half of the US population saying “Yes, we want more of Trump”, his presidency is sure to deliver a fair amount of chaos. But with promises of better living conditions, most Americans are seemingly more than willing to put up with it. The rest of the world be damned… Caryn Dolley on Mark Lifman · Carte Blanche Website · Chat on X · Chat on Facebook

Another tender, another scandal. But it might not be too late. Then, it's back to school for ANC members. We ask: what's the point? Later, the US elections are here and it could be an uncomfortably close race. And a win for families as Tiger Brands offers to pay up. But first: this past week's mini-budget was hardly one for the history books. With a strong emphasis on early retirement and public-private partnerships when it comes to infrastructure projects, we unpack some of the key points. Ghost Company Bags R428-Million Tender · Carte Blanche Website · Chat on X · Chat on Facebook

All for show… Why this year's BRICS Summit felt rather pointless. Later, why hundreds of medical professionals are fleeing to Canada. Then, society is seemingly calling it quits on news. Why that's a problem. And how one women's vision reshaped the mental health conversation in South Africa. But first, another girl found dead at the hands of a depraved man. The country recoiled in horror as 6-year-old Amantle Samane was raped and murdered in Orlando East in Soweto last week. She becomes yet another young life lost in the most brutal way imaginable. With a man in custody, and court proceedings expected to continue this coming Friday, young Amantle's murder comes as the country grapples with two more court cases involving child trafficking and murder. We look at how these handful of cases serves as a reflection on our very broken society. Carte Blanche Website · Chat on X · Chat on Facebook

Budget cuts threaten to decimate our already fragile education sector. Later, express kidnappings are on the rise – we look at the stats. Then, a national hero – why rape survivor Alison Botha needs your help. And it's bye-bye Karpowership! But first, more than 100 days in, our government of national unity is teetering on the edge as various political parties struggle to meet each other halfway. From the highly controversial Basic Education Laws Amendment Bill to National Health Insurance – powersharing roleplayers just can't see eye-to-eye. So, can a newly formed conflict resolution committee be the GNU's saving grace? Help Alison Botha · Carte Blanche · Chat on X · Chat on Facebook

An organisation being torn apart from the inside – what the conflict between two ANC heavyweights reveals about the party. Then, another fail for former Public Protector, Busisiwe Mkhwebane. Later, the US hurricanes serve as a sobering preview of things to come. And a Minister on a mission – Gayton McKenzie delivers on his promises. But first, now that the City of Tshwane has a new mayor at the helm, two coalition role players are pulling in two very different directions. On the one hand, we have the DA making demands – give us back our mayor, or else. And on the other, the EFF is showing us its mature side and calling for stability. All this while the battle for Ekurhuleni heats up… Daily Maverick · Carte Blanche · Carte Blanche Website · Chat on X · Chat on Facebook

The ocean covers 70% of the Earth's surface, making it the largest living space on our planet. It's a vast world, largely unexplored, and has the ability to both soothe and terrify. Embracing both these on a daily basis is Zandile Ndlovu, lovingly known by many as The Black Mermaid. Conservationist, activist, filmmaker, author, and South Africa's first black female freediving instructor, Zandi has now added one more title to her long list of achievements – penguin warrior. We sit down with this formidable woman of the water to find out more about life under the sea, embracing fear, saving penguins, and changing lives. Save African Penguins from Extinction · Black Mermaid Foundation · The Black Mermaid · Carte Blanche Website · Chat on X · Chat on Facebook

Labour Department raids expose dodgy employers. Then, the Lusikisiki Massacre reignites the illegal firearms conversation… Later, the tenth of October is D-day for Durban as taps run dry. And a fascinating study on how viable a universal grant could be in South Africa. But first, the City of Tshwane finds itself rudderless once more as city mayor Cillier Brink is kicked from his mayoral seat. However, he might still make a triumphant return… Meanwhile, a few more candidates are waiting in the wings… Carte Blanche Website · Chat on X · Chat on Facebook

While the GNU looks healthy more than 100 days in, the same can't be said for provincial government… Then, from Palestine to Lebanon – why President Ramaphosa believes South Africa could play an integral mediation role. Later, why Eskom's proposed tariff hikes won't address the real issue… Also, are we turning a corner in the fight against rhino poaching? And we find inspiration in the stories of 35 trailblazers under 35. But first, as pressure mounts on the ANC and President Cyril Ramaphosa to act against Justice Minister, Thembi Simelane, some are beginning to say this is all part of a ploy to halt prosecutions in the VBS and State Capture matters. Carte Blanche Website · Chat on X · Chat on Facebook

Beware the lemon… A cautionary tale when it comes to buying a second-hand car. Then, another state-owned enterprise – this time to tackle our water woes. Also, how exploding pagers and walkie-talkies pave the way for a new kind of warfare. Later, how the world's smelliest fruit is contributing to skyrocketing coffee prices. And the wheels of justice turn slowly – but at least, they're turning. But first, just over two weeks into its existence, the two-pot retirement fund has already led to billions of rands making its way back into the economy. Carte Blanche Website · Chat on X · Chat on Facebook

Something is rotten in the state of… Joburg. From libraries to roads and everything in between – we look at the Joburg Files. Then, Helen Joseph Hospital hell. Later, wage negotiation season is officially open. Why public servants are fighting an uphill battle. We also discuss the rather bizarre US presidential debate. And a lesson in zen – how breathing and hamsters can help you chill. But first, we reflect on Pravin Gordhan's legacy. Carte Blanche Website · Chat on X · Chat on Facebook

In this special crime-focused extended episode, we ask how a Memorandum of Understanding can potentially turn the tide against crime in the Western Cape. Then, no one is safe from extortion rackets - not even schools... Later, why are food poisoning incidents on the rise? And how one man turned personal tragedy into triumph for hundreds of disabled children nationwide. But first, amaPanyaza is here to stay! Why is Panyaza Lesufi not willing to let go of his beloved crime prevention unit? Carte Blanche Website · Chat on X · Chat on Facebook

An SOE shakeup is welcomed by most – so is it a move in the right direction? Then, from podcasts to politics – what Roman Cabanac's controversial appointment says about the DA. Later, do we have a compromised Minister of Justice? And bringing the gees to the Paralympics in Paris. But first, as we celebrate day 160 of no loadshedding, it seems South Africa has reached a crucial turning point in our 17-year-long energy crisis. Pessimists will say: don't hold your breath, while optimists (such as ourselves) are eagerly awaiting a blackout-free summer. Carte Blanche Website · Chat on X · Chat on Facebook

Scorpions 2.0 is a go after years of delays… Then, the forgotten continent – mpox shows how Africa is often overlooked. Later, a win for South Africans as inflation hits a three-year low. And forget about free Willy. It's free Charlie the Elephant! But first, as many South Africans struggle to come to terms with the murder of 16-year-old Deveney Nel earlier this month, and the family of slain Pastry Princess, Thembekile Letlape, try and come to terms with her death at the hands of an alleged abusive boyfriend, we ask – once again – what needs to happen for women and girls in South Africa to be safe? Carte Blanche Website · Chat on X · Chat on Facebook

Out with the old and in with the… uhm, new? Dada Morero takes over as Joburg mayor. Then, the latest unemployment figures highlight the desperate situation so many South Africans find themselves in. Later, a new Human Trafficking report places South Africa at the centre of criminal networks operating across the continent. And does a sperm donor a father make? A recent ruling says: no. But first: Floyd Shivambu – one of the founding members of the Economic Freedom Fighters – defected in dramatic fashion last week, leaving the political party facing an uncertain future. Carte Blanche Website · Chat on X · Chat on Facebook

From Khayelitsha shootout to courtroom misfire – why an open-and-closed case was scrapped from the roll. Later, a worsening scholar transport crisis is putting our children at risk. Then, xenophobic bullies take aim at a Miss SA contestant, while xenophobes in the UK wreak havoc. And an Olympics of a different kind as space geeks unite in Cape Town. But first, the uMkhonto weSizwe Party continues making headlines for all the wrong reasons – this time for its seemingly out-of-the-blue decision to oust at least 15 of its MPs. The party says: this was always the plan, but others warn this has the makings of an aggressive takeover. Carte Blanche Website · Chat on X · Chat on Facebook

The youth are getting thrifty – how Gen Z and Millennials are reclaiming their financial power. Then, Kabelo Gwamanda must go! But is he the only one to blame for Joburg's ruin? Later, an illegal military training camp in Mpumalanga. How did government miss it? And gold, silver and bronze – our Olympic athletes are bringing home the medals. But first, the African Growth and Opportunity Act (known as AGOA) is once again topping the agenda as the United States is seemingly warming to the idea of keeping South Africa around as a trade partner. Meanwhile, the Minister of Trade and Industry and his Deputy are confident our membership will be renewed. But there's still a lot that could happen between now and September next year. Carte Blanche Website · Chat on X · Chat on Facebook

Is government's plan to get off the greylist being hampered by some estate agents and lawyers? Then, we talk about the p-word – no, not that one. We ask whether privatisation is the answer. Later, chartreuse green, coconut trees and brats – Kamala Harris' presidential campaign is giving. And welcome to the International Space Station. You can check out any time you like, but you can never leave… But first, as Carte Blanche wraps up its two-part investigation into extortion rackets in the Western Cape, we ask what needs to happen to prevent yet another crime trend from taking hold. Carte Blanche Website · Chat on X · Chat on Facebook

The GNU looks stable, but some GPUs are seemingly headed for the ICU. Then, why it's time for the EFF to speak up about VBS.Later, Independent Media's big blunder as a bizarre campaign targets the wrong man. And with the Paris Olympics just days away, we focus on the star South African athletes going for gold. But first, Parliament is in session and there's a lot of work to be done. Why last week's Opening of Parliament Address gives us hope for the next five years… Carte Blanche Website · Chat on X · Chat on Facebook

The Gauteng Cabinet is crumbling as the ANC, DA and EFF struggle to see eye-to-eye. Then, starting claims made by the former CEO of VBS Mutual Bank. But are these just the ramblings of man desperate for a lighter sentence? Why appointing a jaded former judge to the JSC has experts concerned. And some closure in the Life Esidimeni tragedy. But first, just days into his tenure as new Sports, Arts and Culture Minister, Patriotic Alliance leader, Gayton McKenzie ruffled a few feathers. Carte Blanche Website · Chat on X · Chat on Facebook

Two South African engineers continue to languish in an Equatorial Guinea prison – now, the UN says: release them. From a disastrous debate to concerning moves by the US Supreme Court – is the American dream fading? Then, nuclear rhino horn and taxing cow farts – we look at the more quirky solutions to combat poaching and climate change. But first, we finally have a Cabinet – and it's a biggie! With President Ramaphosa adding two ministers and seven deputy ministers, South Africa's national executive is the largest it's ever been. We look at some of the more surprising appointments and ask whether being qualified for the job is what matters most… Carte Blanche Website · Chat on X · Chat on Facebook

Hospitals under siege – why it's time to pay attention to cyberattacks on healthcare systems. From chatbots to image generators and transcription tools – AI is here to stay, and South Africans are loving it. Then, protests in Kenya continue as the youth say: no more. Later, how a simple tech solution is keeping moms-to-be safe. And why a Hilux bakkie named Edna captured the hearts of many. But first, it's a case of on again, off again... Why did a seemingly solid GNU fall to pieces within a matter of hours, and what does this say about the future under a coalition government? Carte Blanche Website · Chat on X · Chat on Facebook

Another week, another blow to independent media. We send out an SOS. Comparing apples and pears… literally. The Competition Commission warns fresh produce wholesalers to stop its anti-competitive practices. Later, Ray Mahlaka tells us why he believes Transnet is about to stage the biggest turnaround in business history. And women in Soweto are saying: Funk It, I'm Walking. But first: it was a lavish affair, but now the real work begins. Now that the presidential inauguration is behind us, and the fight for cabinet positions continues, we look at how the markets have responded to the Government of National Unity, President Ramaphosa's second term, and discover everyone from industry to ratings agencies believe we're finally on a road to recovery. Carte Blanche Website · Chat on X · Chat on Facebook

It's official: the ANC, DA and IFP have formally signed an agreement to form a Government of National Unity. But what does it all mean? How the MK Party overplayed its hand… Then, the struggle for ministerial positions continues, and we can't help but wonder whether politicians have forgotten about the people. Later, a race against time as cases of mpox are on the rise. We also look at why Transnet is crying foul of a World Bank report. And why should cattle farmers paint eyes on their animals' backsides? We find out. Carte Blanche Website · Chat on X · Chat on Facebook

New faces, new voices – we look at the big changes on the Members of Parliament list. Then, from political drama to courtroom drama – we do a quick-take on some major cases. Later, devastation across parts of KZN – again. Also, are willing fathers unfairly excluded from their children's lives by the legal system. And Mexico welcomes its first female president and we're ready to take notes. But first, as the ANC moves towards a Government of National Unity, the fight over policies begins. Whether its giving back the land or nationalising the Reserve Bank, or even scrapping BEE… Heck, some parties are even pushing for the scrapping of the Constitution altogether. So, what's a coalition government to do when policies clash? Carte Blanche Website · Chat on X · Chat on Facebook

South Africa officially enters a new political era. So, now what? Then, the IEC takes a battering as voters and some political parties say: we expected better. Later, we ask: what more needs to happen before the humanitarian crisis in Gaza gets the urgent attention it deserves? And a new medical trial could change the way we handle everything from dentistry to bone diseases. But first, it's the big C-word many of us have been anticipating. As the IEC declares this year's election results, coalition negotiations are already in high gear. And with Jacob Zuma's MK Party kicking dust in the faces of many major political parties, the intricate coalition game is sure to deliver a few more surprises. Carte Blanche Website · Chat on X · Chat on Facebook

Ethical leadership, releasing the land to the people, and setting up a food security council in the Free State. These are just some of the things independent candidate, Sesing Ramotswabodi is putting on the table to convince voters to give him a chance. But running for office is a daunting task and the challenges are many – even for the biggest political parties out there. Masa Kekana finds out why Sesing thinks he stands a chance. Carte Blanche Website · Chat on X · Chat on Facebook

He's the face of Build One South Africa (or BOSA), a relatively new party that's garnered a fair amount of attention. Mmusi Maimane is a well-known political contender who aims to bring new, fresh voices to the local scene. But will voters be able to separate him from his DA legacy? Masa Kekana speaks to Maimane about BOSA's goals and why he believes an “uberised response system” is the answer to South Africa's crime problem. Carte Blanche Website · Chat on X · Chat on Facebook

Election week is upon us and it will be all eyes on the results as they start trickling in from across the country. Then, political killings are on the increase. Could it get worse pending the election outcomes? Later, President Cyril Ramaphosa is eager to sign off on yet another Bill. Why you should care about the so-called spy bill. Also, are we facing a mental health crisis? Some experts say: yes. And it's all because of that smartphone in your hand. And we celebrate the appointment of our new Chief Justice. Carte Blanche Website · Chat on X · Chat on Facebook

South Africa's education landscape faces a sobering reality. Alongside issues like bullying, substance abuse and vandalism, rampant sexual abuse and grooming add to the burden experienced by many schoolchildren. Many cases go unreported, but the statistics paint a clear picture of a trend that demands urgent attention. Having recently launched on Mnet Channel 101, a four-part documentary series called School Ties takes a sobering look at a culture of grooming and sexual abuse within some of the country's most elite private schools. We're joined by series producer Richard Gregory to find out more about Operation Nemo, a specialized police investigation into sports coaches targeting vulnerable students, and why school ties should serve as a wake-up call for parents and educators alike. Carte Blanche Website · Chat on X · Chat on Facebook

Two-pot what? With just four months before it goes live, we look at the two-port retirement system. How the local drone industry is quite literally lifting off in a big way. Then, could we face another bird flu epidemic? Why the novel H7N6 strain is cause for concern. Later – a new road safety survey calls drivers out on their bad habits. And South Africans are gatvol – so they're fixing things themselves. But first, President Cyril Ramaphosa found his pen and the Rolls Royce of healthcare has been signed into law this past week. But not everyone is celebrating the National Health Insurance Bill. But don't cancel your medical aid just yet… Carte Blanche Website · Chat on X · Chat on Facebook

Shell is gone – what the oil giant's exit from South Africa really means. Then, a burning flag sends some South Africans into a fiery rage. Later, Israel ups the ante as ground forces intensify their presence in Gaza. And could it soon be lights off for Joburg? Perhaps, if Eskom gets its way. But first, several construction workers remain trapped beneath the rubble after a five-storey apartment building in George in the Western Cape collapsed. While it's too early to determine the cause, South Africans want answers. Carte Blanche Website · Chat on X · Chat on Facebook

Worker's Day or Unemployment Day? Millions of South Africans have little to celebrate. As the search for missing Joshlin Smith continues, we look at the growing crisis our children face. Then, a major political move to free two South Africans imprisoned in Equatorial Guinea. And is that some hope we see on the horizon? Eskom says: you bet. But first – small parties with a potentially big swing. As more fringe parties grab the attention of major contenders, we ask whether organisations vying for independent territories could have any impact on SA politics. Carte Blanche Website · Chat on X · Chat on Facebook

Several political parties – both big and small – are coming out in full force as the elections creep ever closer. But what's truly on offer? And how capable are the many political parties of sticking to those promises? We speak to Eyewitness News politics associate editor and Politricking host, Tshidi Madia, about manifestos, the biggest potential losers, own goals and whether your chosen party is willing to sell its soul in the coalition game. Carte Blanche Website · Chat on X · Chat on Facebook

The NPA is tired of waiting and urges ministers, accused and others to get a move-on. Then, carnage in the Cape as gangs take hold. Later, the Forgotten War – we turn our focus to Sudan's worsening civil war. And the Supreme Court of Appeal comes to rape victims' defence. But first, this past Sunday, Carte Blanche aired a special 90-minute documentary titled 30 Years of Democracy. With the elections only a month away, we look back at the difficult road travelled, the importance of hope, and the future of a nation on the cusp of change. Carte Blanche Website · Chat on X · Chat on Facebook

Daily Maverick has shut down – well, sort of. Why all South Africans should pay attention. It's the battle of Public Protectors – but at what cost? Then, the ANC is confident it will reign victorious come the May elections. And a win for Siya Kolis, Limpopo musicians… and South Africa as a whole. But first, we try and understand why so many people are convinced that the late former Steinhoff CEO, Markus Jooste, is faking his own death…

Devastating storms in the Western Cape have us worried about what the future holds. A nation left vulnerable – we look at the dire state of our military. Then, how one man is saving lives – one box of medication at a time. And the so-called Hardest Geezer does the unimaginable. But first, it's been a busy week for the IEC as not one but two major court judgments had everyone buzzing.

Bring back the Scorpions! No more parole. Penal colonies in the Kalahari. And grand corruption will be declared a “crime against humanity”. Furthermore, the triple BEE model will be scrapped – but is a proposed replacement just BEE dressed up in a fancier name? Masa Kekana sits down with ActionSA's Herman Mashaba to find out how the party hopes to achieve many of its lofty promises.

As the inquiry into the deadly Usindiso building fire wraps up, survivors are running out of time. Another step closer to Eskom 2.0 – but will it solve our power problems? Then, several arrests in the Fort Hare University scandal exposes a deadly network of crime and corruption. And bye-bye e-tolls? Government says: we promise.

A private education giant has fallen, leaving devastated students and parents in its wake. The ANC finds itself between a rock and a hard place as the National Speaker faces arrest. Later, we reflect on a few stories that made us question reality. And how an invasive plant is bringing hope to families in the Northern Cape.

The clear divide between what government chooses to celebrate on Human Rights Day, and what's really happening on the ground. Then, one basic human right countless South Africans are living without. Later, we need to talk about the MK Party… And how kids on the Cape Flats are helping sunbirds find their way home.

With just over two months to go before South Africans are set to make their mark, Masa Kekana sits down with My Vote Counts campaigner, Keamogetswe Seipato, to find out why this election feels so different. What's truly at stake? Who has the most to lose? And why the youth hold the power to change it all.

We're joined by journalist, Takudzwa Pongweni to take us into this past week's The Gathering. Then, are local news publications suffering because of tech giants? Has X become a safe space for cyberbullies? One activist says: yes. Later, Nigeria comes down hard on plastic pollution, but is it the best solution? And Gauteng's Green Army is uplifting communities one veggie garden at a time.

All is not well with Knysna, and a 109-page report tries to explain why. You've heard of state capture. But are we entering an era of media capture?Then, the High Court says no to anti-vaxxers. Later, how one mining giant is playing its part in reviving Mpumalanga's rivers. And the country has been gripped by the heartbreaking case of young Joshlin Smith. Following arrests last week, we look at the state's case and how online sleuths perhaps took things too far.

Cadre deployment: what does it mean, who's benefiting and is the DA really in a position to complain?But first: Arrests at last! A massive breakthrough in the AKA murder case gives us hope.Then, AI saves the day as SARS uses tech to take back taxes. And the fight against HIV and AIDS gets a massive boost as a game-changing pilot project goes live.

Causing a stink in Cape Town – the so-called livestock death ship reignites a decades-long debate. Eradicate pit latrines or else – why government has failed to address this human rights violation. Then, we finally have an election date! And why is the ANC staying quiet on Alexei Navalny's death?

The Usindiso Inquiry continues and it highlights the City of Joburg's many failings. The death of an 11-year-old boy shines the spotlight on unfinished building projects across the country. Then, a feel-good update on a story that left many of our followers seeing red. And conservation news reminds us what we are capable of if we work together. But first, it's the dreaded Budget week where we are given a sobering overview of the country's finances. However, if the ANC's recent comments on loadshedding and state capture are anything to go by, it seems we're very much on our own…