First Take SA

The Socio-Economic Right Institute of South Africa (SERI) is taking the City of Johannesburg to court today over the removal of informal traders in parts of the city. In recent weeks, the municipality has implemented its clean-up and by-law enforcement programme as part of reclaiming the city. The initiative has also seen City officials embarking on a new registration system aimed at regulating the more than 20 000 informal traders. This involves the removal of unregistered informal traders operating without authorisation and outside designated areas. Elvis Presslin spoke to Zanele Kanya, Candidate Attorney at SERI

The GOOD Party has laid criminal charges against Western Cape MECs and senior officials for allegedly tabling falsely balanced provincial budgets ahead of last year's general election. The party claims the MECs presented a rosy picture of the province's finances, only to later declare a R3.8 billion budget shortfall. A dossier of evidence has been submitted to the police and the party says this is the first time in South Africa's history that a government has been caught tabling a false or fake budget. Elvis Presslin spoke to Brett Herron, GOOD Secretary-General and Member of the Western Cape Provincial Parliament

NotInMyName International is calling for justice after two cousins, Tshiamo and Baleseng Moramaga were shot dead in Mamelodi East, Tshwane, on Sunday morning. The organisation is demanding a swift and transparent investigation into the brutal murder and is calling for increased police patrols and support for the affected community. This latest incident has reignited concerns about gender-based violence in South Africa, with NotInMyName International condemning the systemic failure to protect women and combat femicide. The organisation is urging the government to declare GBV a national emergency and take decisive action. Elvis Presslin spoke to NotInMyName International Secretary-General, Themba Masango

Elvis Presslin takes a look at the current top African economic stories with Victor Kgomoeswana, author of "Africa Is Open For Business" and "Africa Bounces Back". Victor is also the Executive Director for Marketing and Communication at the University of Limpopo

Eight former ActionSA councillors in Johannesburg are heading to court to challenge their removal from the City council. They claim their dismissal was procedurally flawed and politically motivated. The matter will be heard in the High Court tomorrow (Tuesday). The councillors argue that ActionSA ignored their rights by proceeding with replacement processes despite receiving cease and desist letters. They say the case is about fairness, accountability and democratic procedure. Elvis Presslin spoke to Elmari Atterbury, Spokesperson for the applicants and ActionSA National Chairperson, Michael Beaumont

The Gauteng Provincial Government will today launch "Tswa Daar!", a massive campaign to combat substance and alcohol abuse. The initiative aims to provide support to those affected and their families, while also addressing the root causes of the problem. Multidisciplinary teams will be deployed across the province to offer assistance and a central database will be created to track substance abuse and allocate resources effectively. Elvis Presslin spoke to Gauteng Government Spokesperson, Elijah Mhlanga

The Activists and Citizens Forum is questioning the lack of arrests in the Tembisa Hospital corruption scandal, despite the Special Investigating Unit (SIU) identifying suspects and confiscating assets. Over R2 billion in corruption has been allegedly stolen at the hospital, with syndicates working with corrupt officials to manipulate the tender system. The Forum is calling on the Investigation Directorate Against Corruption (IDAC) to immediately arrest those implicated, including alleged kingpin Hangwani Maumela. Elvis Presslin spoke to Dennis Bloem, Activists and Citizens Forum Spokesperson

The National Freedom Party says it has lost confidence in KwaZulu-Natal Premier Thami Ntuli. The party is citing financial mismanagement and lack of transparency in the Government of Provincial Unity. The party says the current administration has failed to deliver on its promises, and it's time for a new approach. The NFP suggests allowing the MK Party to take a leading role in future governance, given their strong showing in the recent provincial elections. The party remains committed to supporting a government that prioritizes service delivery, good governance, and transparency. Elvis Presslin spoke to National Freedom Party (NFP) KwaZulu Natal Provincial Deputy Secretary, Zithembe Ngobese

South Africa has been removed from the Financial Action Task Force's grey list after a 32-month period. The Financial Intelligence Centre (FIC) has welcomed the decision, citing a concerted effort by various role players to address identified deficiencies and implement necessary reforms. The country was placed on the list in February 2023 by the global terror-funding watchdog for failure to detect money laundering and terrorist financing. Elvis Presslin spoke to Waldo Krugell, a Professor of Economics at Northwest University

The Independent Financial Advisors Forum has rejected the Democratic Alliance's "Economic Inclusion for All Bill", calling it a attempt to erase the role of race in South Africa's history of exclusion. IFAF argues that B-BBEE has made measurable gains in dismantling apartheid's economic legacy, citing the growth of the black middle class and increased access to skills development. The Forum is calling on Parliament to reject the bill and instead deepen transformation efforts. To discuss this further Elvis Presslin spoke to Deputy Chairperson of the Independent Financial Advisors Forum (IFAF), Buti Sigasa

Today is World Polio Day, marking global efforts to eradicate poliomyelitis. Despite progress, the fight against polio continues, with vaccination campaigns and community engagement playing a crucial role. The World Health Organization's European Region was declared polio-free in 2002 and has maintained this status since. Elvis Presslin will be discussing the importance of polio vaccination and the progress made so far with Okon Abdi Guhad, a Kenyan polio survivor and community champion

The United Democratic Movement, UDM has raised concern about the rapid growth of the online betting industry. The party warns that gambling has become a mechanism of mass economic extraction that drains households and deepens poverty. The UDM is particularly concerned about reports of students using their National Student Financial Aid Scheme allowances to gamble online. The UDM is demanding that the government regulate online gambling platforms, restrict advertising and provide support for those affected by addiction. They are also calling for the issue to be discussed at the National Dialogue to develop coordinated solutions to protect vulnerable citizens. Elvis Presslin spoke to UDM Acting Secretary General, Zandile Phiri

Elvis Presslin takes a look at the current top African economic stories with Victor Kgomoeswana, author of "Africa Is Open For Business" and "Africa Bounces Back". Victor is also the Executive Director for Marketing and Communication at the University of Limpopo

The Standing Committee on Public Accounts, SCOPA is pushing for changes to the Road Accident Fund Act to require visitors to have medical insurance, similar to European Union visa requirements. Currently, anyone injured in a non-fault accident can claim from the fund, regardless of nationality. A new Road Accident Benefit Scheme Bill is expected to be introduced in Parliament by the end of the year. Elvis Presslin spoke to McIntosh Polela, Head of Corporate Communications at the Road Accident Fund, RAF

The Judiciary has expressed concern over testimony at the Madlanga Commission, alleging a R2.5 million bribe was paid to Acting Judge President Aubrey Ledwaba to secure bail for alleged criminal cartel member Katiso Molefe. Acting Judge President Aubrey Ledwaba denies receiving any money and has declined special leave. Elvis Presslin spoke to Mbekezeli Benjamin, Researcher and Advocacy officer at Judges Matter

ActionSA has condemned the recent Westbury shooting that claimed two lives, calling it part of an alarming wave of violence linked to gangsterism. The party is urging the South African Police Service to launch a specialised pilot operation in affected areas, including Westbury and surrounding communities in Johannesburg. ActionSA says urgent action is needed to address the exploitation of children as young as 13 in gang activities. Elvis Presslin spoke to Anti-Drugs Activist and ActionSA MP, Dereleen James

Former President Jacob Zuma has been ordered to repay R28.9 million spent by the state on his personal legal fees related to the Arms Deal. The Gauteng High Court in Pretoria ruled that Zuma must pay the amount, plus 20 years' interest, within 60 days. If he fails to pay, his assets or pension may be attached. Zuma's legal team is currently studying the judgment. But can Mr. Zuma successfully challenge the recent ruling? To answer this and more, Elvis Presslin spoke to Legal analyst, Melusi Xulu

The National Empowerment Fund is hosting the Legal Sector Codes Summit at the IDC Conference Centre in Sandton. The summit aims to advance transformation in the legal profession, exploring progress, challenges and opportunities since the gazetting of the Legal Sector Code under the B-BBEE Act. Leaders from government, the judiciary and private law firms will discuss how to move beyond policy compliance towards meaningful participation and equitable access in the legal sector. Elvis Presslin spoke to Mziwabantu Dayimani, CEO of the National Empowerment Fund

Former Minister of Police Bheki Cele will appear before the Ad Hoc Committee today to address allegations made by General Nhlanhla Mkhwanazi. Cele is expected to testify today and tomorrow, providing insight into the 2019 work study that led to the disbandment of the SAPS Political Killings Task Team. The committee will likely scrutinise Cele's role in the decision-making process. For more we're joined by Independent Crime Analyst, Dr. Chris De Kock

Seven South African Police Service officers have been arrested in Booysens, Johannesburg for allegedly extorting and kidnapping a suspected illegal miner. The officers reportedly demanded R30,000 from the victim. Joburg Public Safety MMC, Dr. Mgcini Tshwaku has confirmed the arrests and spoke to Elvis Presslin

The Gauteng government has announced the disbandment of the Crime Prevention Wardens programme, also known as AmaPanyaza. The decision allows the wardens to undergo training to become provincial traffic officers. The programme was introduced last year to help prevent crime in the province. The Gauteng Premier says the move aims to consolidate the capacity of traffic wardens and enhance community safety. Elvis Presslin spoke to OUTA CEO, Wayne Duvenage

British journalist and activist Yvonne Ridley has arrived in South Africa for a speaking tour. Ridley was recently detained by Israeli authorities along with other activists while participating in a Gaza aid flotilla. She has spoken out about the harsh treatment she received while in custody. Ridley has a long history of reporting from conflict zones and advocating for human rights. For more on this we are joined on the line by British journalist and activist, Yvonne Ridley

A shooting in Westbury, Johannesburg has claimed the lives of two youths, with five others wounded. The incident occurred when four armed suspects opened fire on a group of seven young people outside a house. The victims, aged between 14 and 19, were rushed to hospital, with two pronounced dead on arrival. The motive behind the shooting is still unclear. One Force SA Founder, Eugene Dooms, joins us to discuss the incident and its impact on the community. Here is One Force SA Founder, Eugene Dooms,

The South African National Taxi Council, SANTACO has wrapped up its Hlokomela Road Safety Activation in Mokopane, Limpopo. The campaign saw SANTACO officials inspecting vehicles and driver documentation at the Mokopane Shoprite Taxi Rank. While the overall condition of vehicles and documentation was commendable, one vehicle was found with a serious safety issue. The driver was cautioned and instructed to have the issue repaired. Mmatshikhidi Rebecca Phala, is SANTACO National Spokesperson

Outrage is growing in Kannaland over the continued leadership of Mayor Jeffrey Donson, a convicted sex offender. Action Society, a civil rights group, has slammed the municipality for allowing Donson to remain in office two years after his expulsion from Icosa, the Independent Civic Organisation of South Africa. Donson was convicted in 2008 for statutory rape and indecent assault of a 15-year-old girl, crimes committed in 2004 during his earlier term as mayor. He received a suspended sentence, a fine, and mandatory rehabilitation after an appeal. Despite this, Kannaland voters reinstated him in the 2021 local elections through an Icosa-ANC coalition. That partnership collapsed amid public anger, leading to a no-confidence vote in April 2024 that briefly removed Donson. He quickly returned to power, prompting renewed criticism from the Commission for Gender Equality, which called his re-election a blow to the fight against gender-based violence. Action Society Spokesperson, Juanita du Preez

The United Democratic Movement, UDM is calling for accountability after a disturbing bullying incident at Milnerton High School in Cape Town. A viral video shows a Grade 10 learner being assaulted by a group of boys, with reports suggesting several other students were also targeted. The incident has sparked widespread concern, with the UDM demanding action from authorities. We caught up with the UDM Deputy President, Nqabayomzi Kwankwa

Elvis Presslin takes a look at the current top African economic stories with Victor Kgomoeswana, author of "Africa Is Open For Business" and "Africa Bounces Back". Victor is also the Executive Director for Marketing and Communication at the University of Limpopo

The ANC has criticised the Democratic Alliance's proposal to scrap Black Economic Empowerment, saying it's an idea that must be challenged by all democracy-loving people. The DA argues that BEE has promoted corruption and killed jobs, benefiting only politically connected individuals. The party unveiled its Economic Inclusion for All Bill, which proposes winding down the BEE Commission and removing BEE references from legislation. For reaction Elvis Presslin spoke to IFP spokesperson, Mkhuleko Hlengwa

The Johannesburg Metro Police Department, JMPD is calling for an immediate investigation into the arrest of seven of its officers by the South African Police Service during a vehicle recovery operation in Bekkersdal, Westrand. The JMPD claims the arrests were baseless and part of a disturbing pattern of interference and hostility. The department is demanding transparency and accountability, citing concerns over potential conflicts of interest and protection of criminal networks. Elvis Presslin spoke to SAMWU Deputy Regional Chairperson, Lebogang Ndawo

The 2025 National Senior Certificate exams kick off today with the Computer Applications Technology Paper 1 practical. Over 900,000 candidates are registered, including a record 766,000 full full-time learners and more than 137,000 part-time candidates. Education officials are urging students to stay focused, while communities rally behind the Class of 2025 with strong support. Elvis Presslin spoke to Grade 12 learner, Ntokozo Thusi on her expectations for this year's exams and Education activist, Hendrick Makaneta

The Public Servants Association, PSA has welcomed a Special Tribunal ruling ordering Nozihle Construction and Projects CC to repay R2.4 million unlawfully obtained through a COVID-19 personal protective equipment tender in Mpumalanga. The association applauds the Special Investigating Unit's efforts in ensuring accountability and deterring corruption in public procurement. The PSA is now calling for disciplinary action against officials involved and stronger oversight in procurement processes. Elvis Presslin spoke to PSA Provincial Organiser in Mpumalanga, Thandiwe Mziyako

The South African Federation of Trade Unions, SAFTU has condemned the theft and trafficking of essential medicines, including antiretrovirals, discovered in a bus crash in Limpopo that claimed 43 lives. SAFTU says this criminal activity endangers lives and undermines healthcare. Bongiwe Zwane spoke to SAFTU National Spokesperson, Newton Masuku...

The Afrika Mayibuye Movement has slammed the City of Tshwane for allegedly spending R777 million on water tankers in the 2024/2025 financial year. The party says the overspending, exceeding the budget by R457 million, threatens the city's financial audit. Mayibuye is calling the expenditure a blatant misuse of funds, alleging it benefits contractors linked to city officials. Bongiwe Zwane spoke to Dr. Moselene Du-Plessis, Chairperson of Afrika Mayibuye Movement in Tshwane

Minister of Cooperative Governance and Traditional Affairs, Velenkosini Hlabisa will today meet with His Majesty King Zwelozuko Matiwane of the AmaMpondomise Kingship in Qumbu, Eastern Cape. The courtesy visit, requested by King Matiwane, is expected to address the reconstitution of Traditional Councils and other key issues impacting traditional governance. For more on this, Minister Hlabisa spoke to Bongiwe Zwane

The Minister of Electricity and Energy, Kgosientsho Ramokgopa has announced a massive R2.2 trillion investment in South Africa's energy sector. The Integrated Resource Plan aims to stabilize the country's energy supply, attract investment, and promote economic growth. Ramokgopa emphasized a diversified energy mix, including coal, nuclear, hydro, solar, and wind power. The plan targets adding 105,000 megawatts of new generation capacity by 2039 and reducing carbon emissions. Bongiwe Zwane spoke to Neville van Rooy, Community Outreach Coordinator at The Green Connection, to discuss the implications of this plan

The South African Democratic Teachers' Union, SADTU, has extended its best wishes to students sitting for the 2025 National Senior Certificate examinations. The union acknowledges the challenges faced by the Class of 2025, whose education was disrupted by the COVID-19 pandemic. SADTU is calling for a smooth exam period and urges communities to support learners during this critical time. Bongiwe Zwane spoke to SADTU spokesperson, Nomusa Cembi

A new study in The Lancet reveals South Africa's health challenges are shifting. Life expectancy has dropped to 66.5 years in 2023, down from 67.7 in 1990. While progress against HIV/AIDS has been strong, non-communicable diseases like stroke and diabetes are rising, threatening those gains. Experts warn that without action on chronic illnesses, health systems face growing strain. Globally, the study shows life expectancy climbing to 76.3 years for women and 71.5 for men. However, chronic diseases now cause nearly two-thirds of deaths worldwide, with heart disease and diabetes leading the way. For more on the study Bongiwe Zwane spoke to Dr. Nkateko Msimeki, Aid for Aids Medical Advisor and General Manager of the Health Policy and Medical Advisory Unit at Medscheme

Bongiwe Zwane takes a look at the current top African economic stories with Victor Kgomoeswana, author of "Africa Is Open For Business" and "Africa Bounces Back". Victor is also the Executive Director for Marketing and Communication at the University of Limpopo

Police Minister Senzo Mchunu has denied any communication with businessman Brown Mogotsi when he ordered the disbandment of the Political Killings Task Team. Mchunu, who is currently placed on special leave is appearing before Parliament's ad hoc committee amid allegations of political interference in policing. Mchunu has expressed concern that Mogotsi obtained information about his directive. The committee is investigating claims of criminal infiltration and corruption in the justice system. For analysis on the recent raid at Mogotsi's business premises and Mchunu's testimony Bongiwe Zwane spoke to Crime expert and Chief Executive Officer of IRS Forensic Investigations, Chad Thomas

The United Democratic Movement, UDM has welcomed a new report on the impact of de-industrialisation on small towns, launched at the Heidelberg Symposium. Titled "The Impact of De-Industrialisation on Small Towns: Case Studies of Lichtenburg and Komati," the report by Frontline Africa Advisory, the Industrial Development Think Tank and the Department of Trade, Industry and Competition highlights how industrial decline has fueled unemployment, strained municipal finances and weakened community ties in small towns.The UDM, represented at the symposium by Councillor Yongama Zigebe, says the findings support its push for re-industrialising rural areas to build a stronger, inclusive economy. Bongiwe Zwane spoke to UDM Councillor in the City of Johannesburg and Chairperson of the S79 Committee on Gender, Youth and People with Disabilities, Yongama Zigebe

The Democratic Alliance (DA) in Gauteng is set to lay criminal charges against Lerato Madyo, the former Chief Financial Officer of the Gauteng Department of Health. The charges will be opened at Johannesburg's Central Police Station today. Madyo is accused of failing to act on warnings from murdered whistleblower Babita Deokaran about suspected fraud at Tembisa Hospital. She's also suspected of possibly being involved in leaking information linked to Deokaran's assassination. Bongiwe Zwane spoke to DA Gauteng Shadow Health MEC, Dr. Jack Bloom

The Pretoria High Court will today hear the Presidency's bid to recover over R28 million in legal fees from former President Jacob Zuma. The costs stem from his court battles since 2018, linked to the 1999 arms deal. Zuma's legal team argues he cannot afford the repayment, citing financial hardship despite his pension. The Presidency, alongside the State Attorney and Solicitor-General is pushing for a court order to enforce repayment with added interest, potentially increasing the total amount owed. Previous rulings from the Gauteng High Court and Supreme Court of Appeal have declared Zuma ineligible for taxpayer-funded legal defense. For legal analysis on the matter Bongiwe Zwane spoke to Legal analyst, Melusi Xulu

Kenyan President William Ruto has declared a 7-day national mourning period following the death of former Prime Minister Raila Odinga. Odinga passed away in India at the age of 80, where he was receiving medical treatment. He led Kenya from 2008 to 2013. South African President Cyril Ramaphosa has sent condolences to the Kenyan government and Its people. Bongiwe Zwane spoke to Kenyan MP, Maxwell Kariuki

Suspended Police Minister Senzo Mchunu is set to testify before Parliament's Ad Hoc Committee today. Mchunu is facing questions over allegations of interference in the justice system and corruption within the police force. KwaZulu-Natal Police Commissioner Lieutenant-General Nhlanhla Mkhwanazi accused Mchunu of overstepping his authority, including disbanding a task team investigating political killings and freezing crime intelligence hires. Mchunu, who has been on special leave since July, denies any wrongdoing. Bongiwe Zwane spoke to Specialist Investigator, Mike Bolhuis for his expectation on Mchunu's expected appearance

The Campaign to Scrap the Labour Law Amendment Bills will today protest outside the Department of Employment and Labour's Braamfontein office in Johannesburg. The coalition of more than 40 unions, feminist groups and social movements has rejected the current R28.79 hourly minimum wage, calling it a "poverty wage". They're demanding public hearings so workers can have their say on what constitutes a decent living wage. Bongiwe Zwane spoke to Vice-Chairlady at Izwi Domestic Workers Alliance, Tshepiso Mphofe

The Democratic Alliance in Gauteng is calling for the immediate dismissal of Lesiba Arnold Malotana, the Head of the Health Department, rejecting his current suspension with full pay. The DA accuses Malotana of longstanding underperformance and links to multiple scandals, including a Special Investigating Unit probe into allegations of a multi-million-rand bribe to secure a contract. In August, Premier Panyaza Lesufi faced questions from DA Shadow MEC for Health, Dr. Jack Bloom, about Malotana's lifestyle audit. Elvis Presslin spoke to DA Gauteng Spokesperson for Health, Madeleine Hicklin

President Cyril Ramaphosa is set to visit Louis Trichardt following a tragic bus crash that claimed 43 lives. The bus was traveling from Gqeberha to Zimbabwe and Malawi when the accident occurred. Limpopo Premier Phophi Ramathuba says authorities are investigating boxes of medication and condoms found scattered at the crash site. Elvis Presslin spoke to African Unite Borders Bus Trucks Association Chairperson, Phumudzo Mukhwathi

Suspended Deputy National Police Commissioner Shadrack Sibiya has accused KwaZulu-Natal Commissioner General Nhlanhla Mkhwanazi of using corruption allegations against him to block his path from becoming national commissioner after Fannie Masemola's term. Appearing for a second day before Parliament's Ad Hoc committee probing police corruption, Sibiya denied meddling in murder probes or ties to shady figures, calling Mkhwanazi's claims a bid to stir public chaos. Elvis Presslin spoke to Security Strategist and retired Interpol Ambassador, Andy Mashaile, for analysis on these explosive allegations and their implications for South Africa's police leadership

The Police and Prisons Civil Rights Union, POPCRU, has raised concern over unexplained reductions in pension fund values reported by its members in recent statements from the Government Employees Pension Fund. POPCRU says these changes were made without consultation or clear explanation. The GEPF attributes the reductions to actuarial projections, but POPCRU argues these should not affect existing balances and questions the decision's legitimacy and governance. The union is demanding full disclosure from the GEPF Board and the Government Pensions Administration Agency on who authorised the adjustments. Elvis Presslin spoke to POPCRU Spokesperson, Richard Mamabolo

A Protea Is Not a Flower, is a thrilling exhibition presented by Zeitz MOCAA featuring South African contemporary visual artists Robin Rhode and Lerato Shadi based in Germany, responding to the life and works of poet Don Mattera, painter Gerard Sekoto and writer Bessie Head. The exhibition opens on 16 October 2025 and runs until 15 November 2026. Elvis Presslin spoke to Khanyi Mawhayi, the Curator of A Protea Is Not a Flower at Zeitz MOCAA Museum

Madagascar's President Andry Rajoelina is reported to have fled the country on a French military plane. The move comes after mass protests led by young people, dubbed "Gen Z", rocked the nation with demands for change escalating into unrest. Segments of the military allegedly refused orders to crack down on demonstrators, instead siding with protesters, fuelling the crisis. Elvis Presslin spoke to Mme Sophie Mokoena, SABC's International Correspondent, for analysis on the situation in Madagascar and what this means for the country's stability