First Take SA

Twelve senior police officers and a company director are set to appear in Pretoria Magistrates' Court today, facing corruption charges tied to the R360m Medicare 24 contract. The contract, meant to provide health services for SAPS staff, was cancelled in May 2025 amid allegations of tender irregularities, with links to implicated individuals, including murder accused Vusimuzi "Cat" Matlala. Elvis Presslin spoke to Juanita du Preez, Spokesperson for Action Society

The Drinks Federation of South Africa says illicit alcohol costs the country billions, with an estimated R25 billion annual market value. Illicit trade accounts for 18% of the market, resulting in R16.5 billion in fiscal losses. DF-SA is calling for coordinated action to combat the issue. The federation will participate in the EMEA Security Conference in Cape Town. A Responsible Trade Task Force has been established to tackle the problem. Elvis Presslin spoke to Shamal Ramesar, who is the Head of Research at the Drinks Federation of South Africa (DF-SA)

The uMkhonto weSizwe, MK Party has approached the High Court in Pretoria on an urgent basis to block what it calls the unlawful release of public funds tied to National Director of Public Prosecutions, Advocate Shamila Batohi. The party claims serious doubts over Batohi's fitness to remain in office and fears she could still pocket a large gratuity payment despite those concerns. Elvis Presslin spoke tp MK Party MP, Mzwanele Manyi

The Forum for South Africa (FOSA) is calling on the Independent Electoral Commission, IEC to strengthen electoral systems and restore public confidence ahead of elections. FOSA cites concerns over vote rigging, ballot paper handling and voting process vulnerabilities. The group demands urgent interventions, including independent monitoring, strict vetting of election staff and prevention of political interference. Elvis Presslin spoke to Tebogo Mashilompane, National Leader of Forum for South Africa

Parliament's Joint Committee on Ethics and Members' Interests has ordered former Higher Education Minister, Dr. Nobuhle Nkabane to apologise in the National Assembly for gross misconduct and misleading Parliament on SETA board appointments. The committee says Nkabane, now ANC Deputy Chief Whip allowed alleged political interference and her advisor to effectively control the process. Elvis Presslin spoke to Karabo Khakhau, MP and DA Deputy Spokesperson on Higher Education and Training

The Department of Tourism has invited public comment on a proposed Code of Good Practice for Short-Term Rentals, which could lead to mandatory regulations. The code may allow municipalities to reclassify residential properties as commercial, increasing rates and taxes. Hosts and guests are concerned about privacy, with the code requiring platforms to share user data. The public has 60 days to comment on the proposal

At least 34 Gauteng schools are non-compliant with health and safety regulations, posing a threat to learners and teachers, this according to the Democratic Alliance, DA. The party is calling for urgent action to address the issue. MEC Matome Chiloane says all schools have safety committees, but the DA questions the department's approach. Elvis Presslin spoke to DA's Shadow MEC of Education, Sergio Isa Dos Santos

Some South Africans have reignited calls to deport foreign nationals serving prison sentences in the country to alleviate overcrowding and the financial burden on taxpayers. Correctional Services Minister Dr. Pieter Groenewald says around 26,000 foreign prisoners are costing the state approximately R463 per day each. That's around R11 million a year. Dr. Groenewald wants to send them back to their home countries to serve out their sentences. Elvis Presslin spoke to Golden Miles Bhudu, Prisoners' rights activist and President of the SA Prisoners Organisation for Human Rights (SAPOHR)

Lobby group, AfriForum has won a court battle against Eskom, forcing the power utility to reveal its coal contracts. The Supreme Court of Appeal dismissed Eskom's appeal, ordering the release of contracts for coal, diesel and electricity supply to neighbouring countries. The court ruled the public has a right to access the contracts. AfriForum plans to scrutinise the contracts for irregularities. The victory comes nearly four years after AfriForum's initial Promotion of Access to Information Act, PAIA application. Elvis Presslin spoke to Morné Mostert, Manager of Local Government Affairs at AfriForum

ActionSA has formally lodged complaints with the Public Protector and Parliament's Ethics Committee following serious allegations that senior Democratic Alliance, DA public representatives have received additional "top-up" payments from the party in potential violation of the Constitution. In the same breath, the EFF in Tshwane say they will write to the speaker and chief whip of Tshwane council to check if DA mayoral candidate, Cilliers Brink declared an alleged extra R62 000 that he receives every month. Elvis Presslin spoke to DA mayoral candidate, Cilliers Brink

It's now time to take a look at the current top African economic stories.....We are joined on the line by Victor Kgomoesoana, 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 Motor Industry Staff Association, MISA says it agrees with Deputy President Paul Mashatile that workers need support to adapt to Artificial Intelligence. Mashatile is challenging labour federations to develop a Digital Workers' Charter. He warns that AI can improve efficiency but demands new skills and it could reshape jobs. Elvis Presslin spoke to MISA spokesperson, Phakamile Hlubi-Majola

The SABC has cancelled Face the Nation, citing cost and scheduling changes. The move follows allegations of censorship and political interference, which the SABC and Presidency deny. The ANC equally rejects claims that it tried to influence programming at the public broadcaster. Elvis Presslin spoke to Presidency Spokesperson, Vincent Magwenya

The Public Servants Association, PSA has slammed the North West Education Department for downplaying a massive R100 million ghost-employee payroll scandal an isolated incident. Auditor-General findings point to alleged deep systemic failures and negligence in the department's financial controls. The Union is demanding full accountability and wants both the Head of Department and CFO to step down immediately. Elvis Presslin spoke to Nceba Baardman, Public Servants Association, PSA, North West Labour Relations Officer

The South African Weather Service has issued a severe thunderstorm warning for Gauteng, excluding the City of Tshwane today. Heavy downpours, localised flooding, hail and damaging winds are expected. Elvis Presslin spoke to forecaster, Lehlohonolo Thobela for more

The Democratic Alliance, DA plans to approach the Madlanga Commission with allegations of corruption in Tshwane. DA mayoral candidate, Cilliers Brink says Deputy Mayor, Eugene Modise has undeclared interests in security and water tanker companies. Brink claims funds meant for infrastructure were diverted to politically connected entities.Modise has denied wrongdoing. For reaction, we're joined by Joel Masilela ka Mahlangu, ANC Greater Tshwane Regional Spokesperson

Sports Minister, Gayton McKenzie is facing intimidation charges after ActionSA MP, Dereleen James accused him of threatening her. The row started when James questioned McKenzie's travel expenses and Kenny Kunene's links to alleged crime figure Katiso Molefe. McKenzie had accused James of spreading lies about him on Facebook Live. ActionSA plans to lay charges against the minister. McKenzie denies making threats. Elvis Presslin spoke to ActionSA National Chairperson, Michael Beaumont

The Gauteng Department of Health is taking steps to recover R4.6 billion in outstanding patient fees. A significant portion, R2.4 billion, is owed by self-paying patients, including foreign nationals. The department has appointed debt collectors and is targeting traceable debt categories. Elvis Presslin spoke to Siyabonga Jikwana, Chief Director of Health Economics and Finance at the Gauteng Department of Health...

ANC in the Tshwane Metro reacts to the allegations of Tender fraud that involves the City's Chief Financial Officer. ANC Tshwane region spokesperson is Joel Masilela

The Congress of the People, COPE is calling for President Cyril Ramaphosa to fire Police Minister Senzo Mchunu immediately. This follows revelations that Mchunu, who is currently on special leave, unilaterally disbanded the Political Killings Task Team (PKTT) without consulting President Ramaphosa. COPE says Mchunu's actions show poor judgment and a lack of accountability and that his removal is necessary to restore public trust in the police leadership. COPE's Acting National Chairperson, Pakes Dikgetsi

The Freedom Front Plus In Tshwane has submitted an urgent motion to investigate Chief Financial Officer Gareth Mnisi and possible political interference in a multimillion-rand security tender. The move follows evidence presented to the Madlanga Commission, revealing WhatsApp messages and lists of preferred companies, allegedly linked to the EFF and ActionSA. The opposition party claims the current administration's procurement process is under scrutiny and questions whether the controversy is about accountability or a power struggle for control of public funds. The FF Plus is calling for a change in government to restore transparency and accountability in Tshwane. We caught up with Grandi Theunissen, City of Tshwane Freedom Front Plus Caucus Leader and MMC for Community Safety In Tshwane and ANC Tshwane regional spokesperson, Joel Masilela.

As South Africa commemorates the 1960 Sharpeville Massacre, many are questioning whether the country's democracy has delivered on its promises. Despite progress, communities continue to face water shortages, electricity instability and collapsing infrastructure, sparking widespread protests. City of Tshwane Researcher, Lesego Mahlangu, in her personal capacity, argues that local government has failed to deliver and that communities must demand accountability and competence from their leaders. With the 2026 local government elections approaching, Mahlangu says it's time for citizens to reclaim their power and hold leaders accountable. She joins us on the line

A top official at Kgosi Mampuru Prison is facing calls for immediate suspension following allegations of a close relationship with murder accused Vusimusi "Cat" Matlala. Lieutenant General Nhlanhla Mkhwanazi told a parliamentary committee that Matlala received preferential treatment, including access to a cellphone. Matlala was recently transferred to a maximum-security prison in Kokstad. Activists and Citizens Forum is demanding an investigation into possible corruption. Dennis Bloem is an activists and Citizens Forum spokesperson

The African Transformation Movement, ATM is calling for an investigation into the reported coronation of a Nigerian "king" in East London. The party says the move undermines South Africa's laws and traditional leadership institutions. ATM is urging authorities, including Premier Oscar Mabuyane and Home Affairs Minister Dr. Leon Schreiber, to look into the matter. The party's Parliamentary Leader, Vuyo Zungula....

A look at the current top African economic stories with Victor Kgomoesoana, author of Africa Is Open For Business and Africa Bounces Back

Gauteng Education MEC, Matome Chiloane has appointed law firm KRM Inc to investigate the death of 10-year-old Milton Neo Mokgoatsane, who was killed when a goal post fell on him at Reagile Primary School in Tembisa. The investigation will look into allegations surrounding the incident and recommend action. MEC Chiloane met with the family and school officials to outline the probe's terms. The law firm will interview witnesses and examine the circumstances, including potential liability and adherence to laws governing learner care. Elvis Presslin spoke to Spokesperson for the Gauteng Education Department Spokesperson, Steve Mabona

The City of Tshwane is facing fresh corruption allegations over 31-point-7 million Rand Water tanker contracts awarded to companies linked to Deputy Mayor Eugene Modise. Modise resigned as director of one company following the payments. DA mayoral candidate Cilliers Brink is also urging further investigation into the R777 million water project, which is already under scrutiny by the Special Investigating Unit (SIU). Modise has denied any wrongdoing. Elvis Presslin spoke to ActionSA National Chairperson, Michael Beaumont

Environment Minister, Willie Aucamp has decided to push ahead and rule on appeals against environmental authorisations for key offshore oil and gas exploration projects. The decision comes against a backdrop of sharply rising global oil prices fueled by ongoing conflict in the Middle East.Speaking at the Southern Africa Oil and Gas Conference in Cape Town, Mineral Resources Minister Gwede Mantashe strongly criticised environmental groups, accusing their court challenges of delaying South Africa's ability to tap its substantial oil and gas reserves and hampering national development. However, environmental groups argue that exploration could undermine climate objectives and harm marine ecosystems. Elvis Presslin spoke to Dr. Ross Compton, Senior Director of global policy at EnerGeo Alliance, who have welcomed Minister Aucamp's decision...

The Department of Home Affairs is facing pressure to insource over 4 years contracted workers who are part of the Digitisation Programme. Civic group Soil of Africa, representing the workers, says it's unfair for the department to downgrade these employees to insecure month-to-month contracts. The group is planning a march to the Department of Home Affairs and the Union Buildings today to demand permanent employment with full benefits. Elvis Presslin spoke to Soil of Africa Chairperson, King Bongani Ramontja...

US President Donald Trump has slammed Counterterrorism Center's Director, Joe Kent following his resignation in protest of US military action against Iran. Trump called Kent "weak on security" and said he wasn't surprised by the criticism. Kent had claimed Iran wasn't a threat. He also accused Israel and its American lobby of deceiving President, Trump into the conflict. Elvis Presslin spoke to International relations expert Dr. Charles Sinkala to unpack the implications...

The disbandment of the Political Killings Task Team again featured strongly during the second appearance of the National Police Commissioner, General Fannie Masemola, before the Ad Hoc Committee looking into concerns into issues of national security. Masemola first appeared in October last year, and he was the second witness to testify. The committee is investigating allegations made by the KwaZulu-Natal Police Commissioner Lieutenant General Nhlanhla Mkhwanazi last year in July. Zalene Merrington reports...

A historic moment in UK–Africa relations is unfolding as Bola Tinubu arrives at Windsor Castle for a state visit, the first by a Nigerian leader in nearly four decades. The visit marks a significant step in strengthening ties between Nigeria and the United Kingdom, with growing trade, investment, and a large Nigerian diaspora linking the two nations. Experts say the visit could signal new opportunities for economic cooperation and policy alignment. Elvis Presslin spoke to Dorothea Hodge, Founder and CEO of Aequitas Global...

The South African Post Office, SAPO is facing possible liquidation, with Business Rescue Practitioners indicating they'll initiate proceedings. This comes after SAPO's business rescue plan failed to secure funding and implement a turnaround strategy. The collapse would have severe socio-economic implications, affecting millions of South Africans who rely on the Post Office for essential services. Over 4,300 employees were retrenched in 2023 and further job losses are expected. The Federation of Unions of South Africa, FEDUSA has blamed governance and oversight failures for the possible liquidation. Elvis Presslin spoke to FEDUSA General Secretary, Riefdah Ajam...

It's now time to take a look at the current top African economic stories.....We are joined on the line by Victor Kgomoesoana, 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

Civil society organisations are taking South African authorities back to court, accusing them of failing to protect foreign patients from vigilante groups targeting two Johannesburg clinics. The Treatment Action Campaign, Doctors Without Borders and Kopanang Africa Against Xenophobia say authorities have not complied with a High Court order to restore safe access to the Yeoville and Rosettenville clinics. The groups claim patients, including pregnant women and children are turned away if they cannot produce a South African identity document. Elvis Presslin spoke to Kopanang Africa Against Xenophobia spokesperson, Dr. Dale McKinley

The United Democratic Movement, UDM is calling for stronger relations between South Africa and the United States, saying dialogue is crucial during times of strain. Party leader, General Bantu Holomisa, made the remarks during a meeting with US Ambassador to South Africa, Brent Bozell. Holomisa highlighted the need for cooperation on issues like the Middle East conflict and economic growth. He also suggested reviving bilateral mechanisms like the Al-Gore-Mbeki Binational Commission to address outstanding issues. Elvis Presslin spoke to General Holomisa

Trade Unions representing workers at Ferrochrome producer, Samancor will engage the company in efforts to reduce the number of employees to be retrenched at the company's smelters. Samancor issued retrenchment notices, that envisages that 2400 employees might be retrenched at its smelter operations and corporate office. It cites electricity costs as the reason for its decision. This, though Eskom granted them a decrease of 63 cent per Kilowatt per Hour. Itumeleng Kgajane has more...

In a landmark divorce case, the Western Cape High Court has ruled a man must financially support his ex-wife's children, despite his role as a stepfather. Legal expert Nonhlanhla Mtshali spoke to my colleague Thembekile Mrototo, about what this judgement entails

The National Consumer Commission has issued a product recall for Made for Tots Corn Puffs Chicken 12g sold at Clicks stores. The recall affects just over a thousand units after the product tested positive for a non-pathogenic strain of Listeria. According to the supplier, about 348 units were sold to consumers while the rest have already been removed from store shelves. Consumers who may have bought the product are being urged to check the batch and return it to stores. Elvis Presslin spoke to National Consumer Commission spokesperson, Phetho Ntaba

President Cyril Ramaphosa has committed his administration to drastically reduce road fatalities. He was speaking at the Inaugural National Transport Conference in Midrand, north of Johannesburg. The three-day gathering attended by Transport Minister, Barbara Creecy, and her deputy, Mkhuleko Hlengwa, brought together decision-makers, investors and innovators to engage on how to build a sustainable transport system that works for the economy and job creation. It also saw attendees from some countries in the SADC region, including Mozambique and Tanzania. Ntebo Mokobo has more.

President Cyril Ramaphosa has committed his administration to drastically reduce road fatalities. He was speaking at the Inaugural National Transport Conference in Midrand, north of Johannesburg. The three-day gathering attended by Transport Minister, Barbara Creecy, and her deputy, Mkhuleko Hlengwa, brought together decision-makers, investors and innovators to engage on how to build a sustainable transport system that works for the economy and job creation. It also saw attendees from some countries in the SADC region, including Mozambique and Tanzania. Ntebo Mokobo has more...

A former Special Task Force member has appeared in court charged with murdering a key witness, raising concerns about the unit's integrity. Matipandile Sotheni, a trained sniper, is accused of killing Madlanga Commission whistleblower, Marius van der Merwe, also known as Witness D. Crime analysts say some task force members are being recruited by organised crime syndicates because of the skills they possess. Elvis Presslin spoke to Mpho Kwinika, General Secretary of the Independent Policing Union of South Africa (IPUSA)

A Cape Town father and former teacher is calling for a major rethink of homework in South Africa. Joseph Nefdt has launched a petition titled "Stop all educational homework in South Africa," arguing that excessive homework is leaving many children overwhelmed and stressed. He spoke to Elvis Presslin

The police in Limpopo say they are intensifying crime prevention efforts through Operation Shanela II, which recently led to the arrest of 27 suspects, including one in possession of dagga worth over R2 million in Hoedspruit. A 38-year-old foreign national was arrested shortly after entering the Hoedspruit Central Business District while driving a white bakkie. Upon searching the vehicle, police discovered 22 sacks of dagga, graded as Swaziland dagga, with an estimated street value of over R2 million. Elvis Presslin spoke to Police Spokesperson in Limpopo Colonel Malesela Ledwaba

The South African Democratic Teachers Union and the National Professional Teachers' Organisation of South Africa, have raised concerns about governance and possible financial mismanagement at the Education, Training and Development Practices Sector Education and Training Authority. They say the ETDP SETA Board opposed a controversial Marshalltown office lease over safety, compliance and cost concerns, but allege those decisions were ignored. The unions are now calling for urgent action, including stopping further payments, securing assets, launching an independent investigation, and suspending the Acting CEO. Elvis Presslin spoke to Basil Manuel, executive director of NAPTOSA....

The Congress of South African Trade Unions has rejected proposals to liquidate the South African Post Office, blaming the institution's crisis on the failures of its Business Rescue Practitioners. COSATU is now calling on the Department of Communications and Digital Technologies to approach the courts to remove the practitioners and appoint competent administrators to lead a turnaround of SAPO. Elvis Presslin spoke to Matthew Parks, COSATU's Parliamentary Coordinator

The South African National Defence Force has been deployed alongside the South African Police Service under Operation Prosper for 13 months, with more than 2,000 troops deployed nationwide. The operation, which was announced by President Cyril Ramaphosa, will focus on crime hotspots in the Free State, Gauteng, North West, Western Cape and Eastern Cape. The SANDF and SAPS held a joint media briefing where they outlined the aim of the deployment. National Police Commissioner, General Fanie Masemola said they have heard the calls from communities.

Media reports suggest that the African National Congress (ANC) intends to recall Johannesburg Mayor Dada Morero. This comes ahead of the local government elections in a few months. The party held a meeting this weekend to discuss Morero's future. Elvis Presslin spoke to Political Analyst Levy Ndou

The Public Servants Association, PSA is calling for urgent intervention after a Grade-1 learner nearly fell into an open pit-toilet at Mogogelo Primary School in North West. The union says the incident highlights systemic failures in providing safe sanitation in schools. The PSA is demanding that the Premier and education officials take immediate action to address the infrastructure crisis.For more we are joined on the line by PSA Labour Relations Officer in North West, Nceba Baardman

South Africa's low-cost airline FlySafair has introduced a temporary fuel surcharge on ticket prices, citing a sharp increase in global jet fuel costs. The airline says the measure is necessary to manage rising operating expenses while continuing to offer affordable travel. We're joined now by Kirby Gordon, Chief Marketing Officer at FlySafair...

Defend Our Democracy says President Cyril Ramaphosa's attempt to remove Justice Sisi Khampepe from the TRC Prosecutions Commission raises serious concerns about judicial independence. The movement views the move as an effort to derail the Commission's investigation into apartheid-era crimes. The commission's work is far advanced, with several weeks of hearings already held. The group is demanding President Ramaphosa to respect the Commission's independence. Here is the Chairperson of Defend Our Democracy, Rosalie Manning