First Take SA

South Africa's ongoing crisis of Gender-Based Violence and Femicide is under fresh scrutiny with three Chapter 9 institutions, the Commission for Gender Equality, South African Human Rights Commission, and CRL Rights Commission, launching a joint national inquiry. The focus is on whether the criminal justice system is truly delivering protection, support and justice for survivors. We spoke to Tsietsi Shuping, Head of Legal Services at the South African Commission for Gender Equality.

Justice Minister Mmamoloko Kubayi has welcomed a High Court order to forfeit around R326 million in assets linked to businessman Hangwani Maumela. The assets include properties in Gauteng, Cape Town and KwaZulu-Natal and luxury vehicles allegedly bought with proceeds from Tembisa Hospital Covid contracts.The case centres on allegations that millions for PPE and hospital services were looted during the pandemic. The investigation followed a National Treasury audit and information from the late whistleblower Babita Deokaran. Kubayi says the ruling shows government is committed to stripping criminals of ill-gotten gains. We spoke to NPA Spokesperson, Mr. Kaizer Kganyago.

KwaZulu-Natal taxi boss Thomas Siyabonga Getsemane is wanted by police after a warrant of arrest was issued for fraud and extortion. The charges relate to allegations dating back to 2023. Taxi association SANTACO in KZN says while the warrant is part of the legal process, it does not mean Getsemane is guilty and the claims must still be tested in court. Law enforcement allegedly tried to apprehend him at his La Lucia residence, but he was not located. We spoke to KZN SANTACO Spokesperson, Sifiso Shangase

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

Dignity South Africa has taken a landmark step by challenging laws that criminalize assisted dying in South Africa. The case, now before the North Gauteng High Court, could reshape how the country approaches end-of-life care and personal choice. It also comes as July's #30for30 campaign reflects on justice, dignity and protection under the law. We spoke to Leigh Mienert, Operations Manager of Dignity SA.

COSATU has called on politicians to allow the Public Investment Corporation, PIC Board to complete its oversight work without interference. The federation says it is concerned about alleged attempts to disrupt investigations into suspended CEO, Patrick Dlamini and PIC deals including Acapulco and Lanseria Airport. COSATU has welcomed the Board's referral of the Acapulco matter to the SIU and is urging President Ramaphosa to issue a proclamation for a full probe with the Hawks and Auditor-General. We spoke to Matthew Parks, COSATU's Parliamentary Coordinator.

A 42-year-old former Emfuleni Local Municipality Fleet Manager is appearing in the Vanderbijlpark Magistrate's Court today on charges of fraud and corruption.The Gauteng Political Killings Task Team alleges about R16 million was paid for 18 municipal vehicles, but only seven were delivered. Police say the arrest follows a probe into the irregular awarding and rollout of the fleet tender. Investigations are ongoing and further arrests have not been ruled out.We spoke to Emfuleni Local Municipality spokesperson, Makhosonke Sangweni.

The Social Movement for Advocacy, Rights and Transformation, SMART is pressing SARS to crack down on widespread tax evasion in the spaza shop sector following damning findings by the Public Protector. The group says many outlets allegedly run by undocumented foreign nationals operate unlicensed, dodging taxes while using public services and infrastructure. SMART says this lost revenue is hurting South Africa's strained fiscus at a time of mounting debt and service delivery pressures. The organisation urges closer collaboration between SARS, Home Affairs, municipalities and other agencies to register compliant businesses and enforce the law fairly, without targeting nationality. We spoke to SMART Manager for Advocacy And Communication, Lehlogonolo Muthevhuli.

The uMkhonto weSizwe Party is strongly opposing the appointment of retired Judge Takalani Raulinga as the first Ombud for the Investigating Directorate Against Corruption, IDAC. In a formal letter to the Justice Minister and parliamentary leaders, party MP Mzwanele Manyi calls the move an error in judgement and wants it reviewed urgently. He points to the judge's long-standing alleged friendship with President Cyril Ramaphosa and past ANC membership as reasons to question his independence. In a media briefing yesterday, Judge Raulinga confirmed his office has already received multiple complaints against senior IDAC officials and investigations are underway, but he's refusing to name anyone involved. We spoke to Mr. Manyi.

The Cape Forum has backed the City of Cape Town's plan to set up its own detective service within the metro police. The civil rights group says it's a step toward full devolution of policing powers, which it has campaigned for since 2022. Forum Executive Chairperson, Heindrich Wyngaard says communities must still share crime information and that the Forum will protest at Parliament in August over its referendum campaign. We spoke to Wyngaard.

The Nigerian government has halted the repatriation of its citizens from South Africa, leaving some still sleeping outside the Nigerian High Commission in Pretoria. A similar scene is unfolding at Malawi's diplomatic missions in Pretoria and Johannesburg. Authorities have not given a timeline for when the process will resume. We spoke to Dr. ABC Okokoh, President of the Ohaneze Ndi-Igbo South Africa Chapter.

SASSA in Gauteng says 143 contract workers started this week to help with grant reviews and eLife Certification at local offices. The agency says extra staff, queue walkers and a fourth monthly payment day aim to reduce waiting times. Elvis Presslin spoke to SASSA National Spokesperson and Head Of Communications, Dr. Paseka Letsatsi...

Author of Africa Is Open For Business and Africa Bounces Back, Victor Kgomoeswana, gives an update on the stories making headlines across the African continent. Elvis Presslin spoke to Kgomoeswana, who is also the Executive Director for Marketing and Communication at the University of Limpopo.

ActionSA says it will today reveal damning internal police records that point to an alleged deliberate cover-up by SAPS in the Phala Phala matter. The party claims the documents show efforts to shield members of the Presidential Protection Unit over unlawful conduct. National Chairperson Michael Beaumont and MP Lerato Ngobeni will lead the press conference at Radisson Red in Rosebank this morning. Elvis Presslin spoke to the parties National Chairperson Michael Beaumont

Veteran actor Seputla Sebogodi, has been described as one of the most prolific story tellers in the South African entertainment industry. Sebogodi passed away on Wednesday evening from complications related to diabetes. He was best known as Kenneth Mashaba on Generations and also starred in Rhythm City, The River and Scandal, among many others. Sebogodi also played in a theatre production 'Black Moon', which was staged at this year's National Arts Festival in Makhanda. Sashin Naidoo reports...

African Bank has started formal consultations with union Sasbo over a restructuring that could cut 1,200 jobs and close 90 branches. The bank says costs are outpacing risk-adjusted revenue, and it has already looked at savings in IT, procurement and property. Interim CEO Zweli Manyathi says no final decisions have been made and the bank will work with the union through the Section 189A process. Elvis Presslin spoke to COSATU National Spokesperson, Zanele Sabela...

The Pan South African Language Board, PanSALB has voiced strong concern over reports of people facing discrimination based on the languages they speak during ongoing anti-immigration protests. PanSALB stresses that while illegal immigration needs addressing, no one should be targeted or suspected simply because of their accent or mother tongue. CEO Dr. Keaobaka Seshoka pointed out that in Africa, language often crosses borders and cannot reliably indicate nationality. She joins us on the line to elaborate further on her sentiments Elvis Presslin Spoke to The Pan South African Language Board, PanSALB CEO Dr. Keaobaka Seshoka

President Cyril Ramaphosa is set to officiate a R10.4 billion investment by Toyota South Africa Motors in Durban, focused on cleaner energy and new automotive technologies. This comes as global automakers, including Volkswagen, face mounting pressure to cut costs, with potential job losses on the horizon. The developments raise important questions about economic transformation, labour impacts, and the role of media in shaping public understanding. Elvis Presslin spoke to Phakamile Hlubi Majola, Misa spokesperson....

The Supreme Court of Appeal has granted the National Prosecuting Authority leave to appeal the acquittal of Timothy Omotoso and his co-accused on charges including rape, sexual assault and human trafficking. The trio were cleared by the Gqeberha High Court in 2024 after the state failed to prove its case beyond reasonable doubt. This latest development reopens complex legal questions around prosecution standards, appeals, and justice for alleged victims. Elvis Presslin spoke to Constitutional Law and legal analyst, Lufuno Nevondwe...

After years of complaints over service delivery, the eThekwini Ratepayers Protest Movement will contest November's local elections. The civic group says it's time to move from protest to power in Durban. But can a civic movement successfully transition into political power? To answer this and Elvis Presslin spoke to the movement's Chairperson, Asad Gaffar, to discuss their plans...

The Madlanga Commission will subpoena doctors who issued medical certificates to North West businessman Sulieman Carrim. Evidence leader Advocate Matthew Chaskalson told the commission Carrim was allegedly seen at a Western Cape shopping centre while seeking a postponement on medical grounds. Witnesses have come forward and video footage will be presented to the Commission today in this respect. For reaction on doctors being subpoenaed before the Commission, Elvis Presslin spoke to Dr. Tshilidzi Sadiki, President of the South African Medical Association Trade Union (SAMATU)...

The National Union of Mineworkers has condemned De Beers' decision to suspend production at Venetia Mine for two years. The company has also started Section 189A retrenchment proceedings, placing 1,214 workers at risk of job losses. NUM says the move is a severe blow to employees, families and surrounding communities and that the company should have consulted workers earlier. We're now joined on the line by NUM National Health and Safety Secretary and Diamonds Sector Chief Negotiator, Masibulele Naki

Concerns are mounting at the Public Investment Corporation after the suspension of CEO Patrick Dlamini and Chief Investment Officer August van Heerden. The DA says the removals expose deep dysfunction at the state asset manager responsible for public pension funds. The party is now calling for urgent parliamentary intervention to restore accountability and stability at the PIC. We speak next to the DA's Finance Spokesperson, Dr Mark Burke, for more

More than ten years after the Lily Mine collapse, the bodies of Pretty Nkambule, Solomon Nyirenda and Yvonne Mnisi are still underground. Their families say they continue to wait for closure and answers. ActionSA is leading a picket outside the National Prosecuting Authority in Pretoria today, calling for justice and accountability. The party says the delays have deepened the families' pain and eroded trust in the justice system. We're now joined by ActionSA President, Mr. Herman Mashaba for more

The EFF says it has written to Higher Education Minister Buti Manamela after allegedly finding four middleman companies are still working for NSFAS despite claims they were terminated. The party says NSFAS could be paying over R220 million a year in fees to the companies, based on R1.1 billion paid out in one 2026 payment cycle. EFF MP Sihle Lonzi says that money should go to students instead, and is asking the Minister to name the companies and explain how the contracts are still running. Mr. Lonzi, joins us on the line

The MK Party is dismissing the Ad Hoc Committee's preliminary SAPS report as an attempt to shield the Government of National Unity. Committee members themselves say the second draft omits critical information. The panel was set up to probe allegations of criminal infiltration and political interference raised last July by Lieutenant General Nhlanhla Mkhwanazi. For more on this, we're joined now by MK Party MP, David Skosana

The Western Cape High Court will hear President Cyril Ramaphosa's urgent application today and tomorrow to halt Parliament's Section 89 impeachment proceedings. The President wants the process suspended while he reviews the Independent Panel report that found a prima facie case against him over Phala Phala. Parliament's Impeachment Committee says it will oppose the bid today, with Chairperson Makashule Gana insisting Parliament has a constitutional duty to continue its work. For more on this we're now joined on the line by Legal analyst, Advocate Mokgadi Joey Machaba

In late June, public health experts warned that an unlawful anti-migrant deadline could spark a crisis, and that warning has now become reality. Within days, tens of thousands of people were displaced by violence or its threat and processed through sites like Musina and the Beitbridge border post. Despite the South African government's rapid response, serious concerns remain about overcrowding, poor sanitation, disrupted medical care, and rising psychological trauma. Today, we unpack the public health implications of this crisis and what must be done to protect lives and uphold constitutional rights. We spoke to Prof Hassan Mahomed, a public health specialist in solidarity with Healthcare Workers Against Xenophobia (HCWAX).

A South African court has handed down judgment in the extradition case of Zimbabwean activist Wellington Masiwa, also known as Comrade Nyoka-yema-bhunu. Masiwa is a vocal critic of President Emmerson Mnangagwa but Zimbabwe says the request relates to fraud charges and not politics. The case has sparked debate over extradition law, political asylum and the protection of activists in South Africa. In an exclusive interview from the holding cells, Masiwa spoke to Producer Tracey Boomgaard about his arrest and time in the country.

The Madlanga Commission has hit another delay after IDAC Head Advocate Andrea Johnson was rushed to hospital yesterday. Her legal team submitted a medical certificate, while North West businessman Suliman Carrim will also miss Wednesday's sitting as he continues to receive treatment reportedly outside Gauteng. Suspended Deputy Crime Intelligence Head Major-General Feroz Khan and Mike van der Walt are among witnesses still waiting to testify after being hospitalised. The repeated postponements have led South Africans to question whether delays are becoming a pattern at the inquiry. We spoke to IFP Chief Whip, Nhlanhla Hadebe.

The Public Investment Corporation board has placed its Chief Executive Patrick Dlamini on precautionary suspension. The move follows a dispute over the Lanseria Airport investment and allegations that Dlamini appointed PwC for a forensic probe without board approval. Businessman Kagiso Matjila has also filed a R900-million damages claim against Dlamini personally. The PIC, which manages about R3.6-trillion in public servants' pensions says the suspension is not a finding of guilt and that Dlamini will respond through internal processes. We spoke to Claude Naiker, Assistant General Manager for the Public Servants Association, PSA.

Former eThekwini mayor Zandile Gumede has officially joined the uMkhonto weSizwe Party. Gumede will serve as the party's deputy convener in KwaZulu-Natal. MK Secretary-General Sibonelo Nomvalo described her as a committed and experienced leader who will strengthen the party's structures in the province. Gumede was mayor from 2016 to 2019 and still faces corruption charges linked to the Durban Solid Waste tender, which she denies. We spoke to Political Analyst, Dr. William Mpofu.

The South African Medical Association Trade Union, SAMATU says government must immediately employ hundreds of unemployed South African doctors who remain jobless while the public health system is understaffed. The union says the move is urgent to ease pressure on hospitals and address what it calls an injustice against local graduates. This comes as ActionSA raises concerns over Gauteng Health reportedly spending more than R612 million a year on foreign healthcare professionals. We spoke to SAMATU General Secretary Dr. Cedric Sihlangu.

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

The Democratic Alliance, DA has stepped up its fight against child rape by calling for a national probe into government departments that are failing to report and investigate cases. The party submitted evidence to the South African Human Rights Commission showing weak compliance with compulsory reporting laws, especially when pregnant girls under 16 appear in hospitals. We spoke to Angel Khanyile, MP and DA Spokesperson on Women, Youth & People with Disabilities.

The Minister in the Presidency for Women, Youth and Persons with Disabilities, Sindisiwe Chikunga, has rejected allegations that she helped family members get jobs in the public service. Her deputy Steve Letsike is also facing similar allegations. In a statement, Chikunga called the reports false and misleading, saying all public service appointments follow a legal recruitment process managed by accounting officers. She stressed that executive authorities do not appoint staff outside the law and that appointments are made on merit and transparency. We spoke to Public Service Commission (PSC) Commissioner, Advocate Neo Sephoti. The Commission is investigating the allegations levelled against the Ministers.

The Madlanga Commission is set for a pivotal week, with Investigating Directorate Against Corruption, IDAC head Advocate Andrea Johnson due to testify today. Senior IDAC investigator Brian Padayachee is also expected to appear this week. Johnson will respond to recent allegations questioning IDAC's conduct and independence, including claims she interfered in an assault case involving suspended Crime Intelligence Major-General Feroz Khan. We spoke to Wayne Duvenage, CEO of the Organisation Undoing Tax Abuse (OUTA).

A three-day inquest into the death of Anele Tembe starts this morning at the Cape Town Magistrate's Court. The court will hear evidence on how Tembe died after falling from the 10th floor of the Pepperclub Hotel in April 2021. Proceedings will also determine whether anyone can be held legally responsible and if further legal action should follow. At the time of her death, Tembe was engaged to late South African rapper Kiernan 'AKA' Forbes - who was shot and killed In Durban in 2023. We spoke to Criminal Lawyer, Bruce Hendricks, Attorney at Hendricks-Harmse Attorneys.

Western Cape Minister of Cultural Affairs and Sport Ricardo Mackenzie has expressed deep sorrow over the deaths of footballer Jayden Adams and young rugby player Luqobo Makwedini. Mackenzie said the pair's passing is a huge blow to their families, teammates and South African sport as a whole. He highlighted how both athletes inspired many young people through their talent and dedication. We spoke to Western Cape Minister of Cultural Affairs and Sport Ricardo Mackenzie.

Solidarity has hit the City of Tshwane with a letter of demand after officials placed City Manager Johann Mettler on precautionary suspension. The union says the move came despite a detailed 18-page response they submitted on his behalf and looks like a politically motivated witch-hunt. Deputy Chief Executive Anton van der Bijl called the process unlawful and unconstitutional, warning the metro faces court action if it does not back down. We spoke to Mr. van der Bijl

The African Christian Democratic Party, ACDP in Ekurhuleni is calling for accountability and swift justice following recent arrests of senior municipal officials. ACDP councillor Palesa Yates says those arrested must have their day in court after the spotlight placed on governance issues by the Madlanga Commission. The party is also renewing calls for justice in the murder of municipal auditor Mpho Mafole, more than a year after he was gunned down, while raising concerns about ethical leadership and governance within the city. We spoke to ACDP councillor, Palesa Yates.

Former Ekurhuleni City Manager, Dr. Imogen Mashazi is expected to apply for bail in the Germiston Magistrate's Court this morning. She and co-accused Linda Gxasheka spent the night in custody after the state asked for time to verify their addresses. Mashazi faces charges of fraud, corruption. Julius Mkhwanazi and Kemi Behari have been granted bail of R50,000 each but remain in custody. For more, we spoke to her legal representative, Johan Eksteen from BDK Attorneys.

The City of Tshwane Council has placed City Manager Johann Mettler on precautionary suspension with full pay, pending an independent investigation. Council also resolved to start disciplinary proceedings against CFO Gareth Mnisi over allegations found to be less serious misconduct. The Mayor says administration remains stable and services will continue. The DA, however, has condemned the suspension as unlawful, alleging 13 votes were deducted after being counted and says it is seeking legal advice. We spoke to DA Tshwane Mayoral Candidate, Cilliers Brink.

The Union Against Hunger will picket outside the South African Human Rights Commission's Food Inquiry today. They plan to hold a symbolic trial of Shoprite in its absence after the retailer and other major chains reportedly failed to appear before the hearings in Johannesburg. The group will hand over a memorandum demanding the Commission compel retailers to attend and explain soaring food prices. We spoke to Union Against Hunger Secretary, Esther Padi.

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

South Africa's asylum system is showing signs of progress, with the Refugee Appeals Authority of South Africa recording one of the biggest reductions in its backlog in years. The Department of Home Affairs says active refugee appeals have dropped by more than 12%, with thousands of cases finalised as part of a broader reform programme. However, with tens of thousands of cases still pending questions remain about whether these reforms will be enough to fully restore confidence in the system. We spoke to Advocate Zilpha Raphesu, the chairperson of the Refugee Appeals Board.

Impeached former Public Protector Advocate Busisiwe Mkhwebane says she will oppose an application by the Legal Practice Council to have her struck from the roll of advocates. The statutory regulatory body has cited several grounds, including alleged unprofessional conduct. Advocate Mkhwebane is expected to file her answering papers in the Gauteng High Court in Pretoria. We spoke to Advocate Mkhwebane.

Labour federation the Congress of South African Trade Unions, COSATU is holding its National Day of Action today alongside affiliates including SAMWU and SADTU. Members are marching to the National Treasury in Pretoria to hand over a memorandum. The memorandum is also directed to CoGTA, SALGA and the Department of Water and Sanitation. COSATU says the action is to defend workers' rights, collective bargaining and quality public services. To elaborate further on today's march we spoke to COSATU National Spokesperson, Zanele Sabela.

Citizen-led movement March and March will today march to alleged drug dens and businesses in KZN, accused of employing undocumented foreign nationals. The group has committed to holding a march every Thursday. March and March says the weekly protests are aimed at putting pressure on authorities to act on crime and job opportunities in the area. We spoke to March and March Movement leader, Jacinta Ngobese-Zuma.

The Activists and Citizens Forum says the only way for EFF leader, Julius Malema to clear his name is to appear before the Madlanga Commission and present his version of events. The call follows damning allegations that Malema, General Feroz Khan, Mo Sayed, and other questionable figures are involved in illegal activities. We spoke to Dennis Bloem, Spokesperson for the Activists and Citizens Forum.

Tensions between the United States and Iran are said to be escalating rapidly following a fresh exchange of strikes and sharp rhetoric. Donald Trump has warned of hitting Iran "hard," suggesting the ceasefire is effectively over. The US has reportedly targeted dozens of Iranian-linked sites, while Iran has responded with attacks on US positions in the Gulf, raising fears of a wider regional conflict. We spoke to Thembisa Fakude, Senior Research Fellow & Director At Africa Asia Dialogues.