First Take SA

The Patriotic Alliance, PA met with the ANC last night to discuss reinstating PA Deputy President Kenny Kunene as a member of the mayoral committee (MMC) for Roads and Transport in the City of Johannesburg. Kunene was sworn in as a councillor last week Friday following his suspension after he was found at the home of murder accused, Katiso "KT" Molefe during a police raid. Elvis Presslin spoke to ANC Greater Johannesburg Regional Coordinator, Mr. Sasabona Manganye

Africa4Palestine has expressed profound sadness at the untimely death of former Minister Nathi Mthethwa and extended its deepest condolences to his family, friends and those mourning his loss. Mthethwa was remembered as a steadfast supporter of Palestine's struggle for dignity, justice and self-determination. During his tenure as Minister of Sport, Arts and Culture, he notably backed the boycott of Israel, withdrawing support for Miss South Africa's participation in an Israeli pageant and helping halt Israeli sporting events in South Africa. Elvis Presslin spoke to Communications and Campaigns Manager for Africa4Palestine, Alie Komape

EFF MP Carl Niehaus is questioning the circumstances surrounding the death of South Africa's Ambassador to France, Nathi Mthethwa, who was found dead outside a Paris hotel. The 58 year-old former Police Minister reportedly fell from the 22nd floor of the Hyatt Regency Hotel. Lieutenant-General Nhlanhla Mkhwanazi alleged that in 2011, as Police Minister Mthethwa pressured then inspector-general of intelligence Faith Radebe to drop corruption charges against former crime intelligence head, Richard Mdluli. Niehaus suspects foul play, though French prosecutors haven't ruled out suicide. EFF MP Carl Niehaus spoke to Elvis Presslin

The South African National Editors' Forum has launched a campaign called "Appointment with the President," urging President Cyril Ramaphosa to hold an open dialogue with the media. The forum says it's time for the President to engage directly with editors and senior journalists, a common practice in democracies worldwide. SANEF expressed frustration, noting that Ramaphosa's last such meeting was during the COVID-19 pandemic in 2020. Elvis Presslin spoke to Deputy Chairperson of the South African National Editors' Forum, Tshamano Makhadi

The 25-year-old African Growth and Opportunity Act, Agoa, expired yesterday, leaving more than 30 Sub-Saharan African countries in limbo. This landmark trade agreement granted duty-free access to the US market for thousands of African products, supporting hundreds of thousands of jobs across the continent. The Trump administration has expressed support for a one-year extension of Agoa, but uncertainty looms as Congressional approval hangs in the balance. President Trump's tariff-heavy trade policies have already impacted Agoa's benefits, with some African exports facing US import taxes between 10% and 30%. Dr. Mmatlou Kalaba, Senior Researcher at the Bureau for Food and Agricultural Policy spoke to Elvis Presslin to elaborate on the impact of AGOA's expiration

Disbarred advocate Malesela Teffo is urging the Madlanga Commission of Inquiry to hear his evidence before wrapping up, warning that skipping it would leave a gaping hole in the final report. Teffo, whose name has surfaced in related parliamentary probes into police corruption, insists his input is key to unpacking allegations of criminality and interference in the justice system. The commission, probing explosive claims by KwaZulu-Natal police commissioner Lieutenant-General Nhlanhla Mkhwanazi, has so far heard from top brass including National Police Commissioner Fannie Masemola but Teffo's plea comes as hearings push toward a close. Elvis Presslin spoke to Advocate Malesela Teffo

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 National Education, Health and Allied Workers' Union, NEHAWU has welcomed the Special Investigating Unit's interim report on Tembisa Hospital. The report reveals that R2 billion in state resources were looted through corruption, fraud, maladministration, procurement fraud, money laundering, collusion and bid rigging. NEHAWU condemned the theft, stating that these funds could have supported healthcare workers during the COVID-19 pandemic by providing essential resources. Elvis Presslin spoke to NEHAWU National Spokesperson, Lwazi Nkolonzi

South Africa is in the grip of powerful criminal networks, according to top cop Lieutenant General Dumisani Khumalo. Testifying before the Madlanga Commission yesterday Khumalo named the "Big 5" as the country's most influential cartels. The syndicates reportedly operate from Cape Town to the nation's borders and beyond. The syndicates are involved in drug smuggling, extortion and rigging lucrative government tenders worth billions. Khumalo says they've infiltrated politics, with links to party structures and decision-making corridors. Elvis Presslin spoke to Independent Crime Analyst, Dr. Chris De Kock

South Africa will today launch Africa's first National Action Plan, NAP to tackle substandard and falsified medical products. The initiative aims to curb the spread of fake and poor-quality medicines, which the World Health Organisation says claims numerous lives globally each year, often undetected. The South African Health Products Regulatory Authority, alongside the National Department of Health and WHO, will unveil the plan this morning. Elvis Presslin spoke to SAHPRA's Head of Regulatory Compliance, Mokgadi Daphney Fafudi

Climate justice activists, community leaders, students and Capetonians will today protest outside the Cape Town International Convention Centre, where the Africa Energy Week 2025 is underway. The Green Connection say fossil fuels worsen climate change, fuel pollution, deepen poverty and inequality, especially in marginalised communities. This comes months after the International Court of Justice ruled that governments must protect children's right to a healthy environment amid the climate crisis. Elvis Presslin spoke to Ntombi Mapapu, Senior Energy and Climate Justice Coordinator at the Southern African Faith Communities' Environment Institute (SAFCEI)...

Gauteng traffic police have raised concerns over a surge in road crashes this weekend, which coincide with payday. Authorities reported over 20 incidents since Friday, ranging from minor to fatal. Traffic police spokesperson Obed Sibasa says drunk driving, speeding, unsafe overtaking and reckless driving are the main causes. For more on this we are joined by Spokesperson for Gauteng Traffic Police Obed Sibasa

Judgment is expected in the drawn-out firearm case against EFF leader Julius Malema and his former bodyguard, Adriaan Snyman in the East London Magistrate's Court today. The pair stand accused of illegally firing a weapon during the EFF's fifth anniversary rally back in July 2018 at Sisa Dukashe Stadium in Mdantsane, Eastern Cape. Both have pleaded not guilty to charges including unlawful discharge in a public area, possession of a firearm and ammunition and endangering the public. Malema says the case is a "political trial" with a botched prosecution. For more Elvis Presslin spoke to Jacques Broodryk, Chief Spokesperson for AfriForum Community Safety and Legal analyst, Melusi Xulu...

ActionSA in Gauteng is calling on residents to boycott the Patriotic Alliance in next year's elections if Kenny Kunene is reinstated as Johannesburg's MMC of Transport. Kunene stepped down as MMC and councillor in July after being found at the home of murder accused Katiso Molefe during a police raid. He was also suspended from PA activities. Last week, PA leader Gayton McKenzie announced that a law firm had cleared Kunene of any wrongdoing. McKenzie has threatened to withdraw the PA from the Government of National Unity and all municipal coalitions by tomorrow if Joburg Mayor Dada Morero does not reinstate Kunene. Kunene was re-sworn in as a Johannesburg city councillor last week. For more on this we joined by ActionSA Joburg Regional Secretary, Lebo Mokoka

Lobby group AfriForum and the Orania Movement have strongly condemned the vandalism of Afrikaner monuments in Pretoria. The damage targeted a gun barrel and a boot on two Boer warrior statues flanking the Paul Kruger statue in Church Square. This follows the EFF's recent push to remove colonial and apartheid-era statues nationwide. The party has also proposed renaming Kruger National Park in a motion tabled in the Mpumalanga Provincial Legislature. AfriForum and the Orania Movement call the EFF's actions an attack on Afrikaner heritage and their right to exist in South Africa. For more we're joined by Joost Strydom, Head of the Orania Movement

The Special Investigating Unit has wrapped up its investigation into corruption at Tembisa Hospital in Gauteng. An interim report, set for release today, reveals billions of rands siphoned off through fraudulent supply chain deals. The probe implicates 111 officials tied to four syndicates, with contracts now canceled and efforts in progress to recover the stolen funds. Joining us to discuss the Democratic Alliance's perspective on the report is DA Gauteng Shadow Health MEC, Dr. Jack Bloom...

Police in Gauteng will today gather at Zoe Bible Church for a National Prayer Day to pray for the safety of officers. 27 police officers lost their lives in the line of duty. Between April 2024 and March 2025, Police unions say these tragic losses highlight the dangerous and challenging conditions faced by SAPS members on a daily basis. Elvis Presslin spoke to South African Police Union Gauteng Provincial Secretary, Jabulile Mabaso

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 Hawks are investigating a R67 million purchase order for transformers at Johannesburg's City Power, amid allegations of undelivered goods. This follows recent reports of corruption and financial mismanagement at City Power, including a separate R500 million tender fraud probe focusing on CEO Tshifularo Mashava's tenure. Elvis Presslin spoke to Tyrell Meyers, DA Johannesburg Shadow MMC for Environment and Infrastructure Services Department

The Ekurhuleni City Council met yesterday to decide on the suspension of EMPD Deputy Chief Brigadier Julius Mkhwanazi. The motion follows allegations that Mkhwanazi supplied police blue lights to alleged underworld figure Vusimuzi 'Cat' Matlala, which were installed on Matlala's personal vehicles in 2023. The Independent Police Investigative Directorate recommended disciplinary action against Mkhwanazi over a year ago, but no action has been taken. The Independent Ratepayers Association of South Africa, IRASA has now pushed for his immediate suspension, citing damage to the municipality and EMPD's credibility. For more on this IRASA Councillor In Ekurhuleni David Berg, spoke to Elvis Presslin

The ANC will today commemorate the legacy of struggle icon Winnie Madikizela-Mandela, who would have turned 89 today. Born on the 26th of September 1936 in Bizana, Eastern Cape, she passed away on the second of April in 2018 at the age of 81. ANC first Deputy Secretary General, Nomvula Mokonyane will deliver a keynote address at the Mama Winnie Mandela Birthday Programme at Phola Park Hall in Thokoza, Ekurhuleni. Elvis Presslin spoke to ANCYL National Spokesperson, Zama Khanyase...

Head of Police Legal Services, General Petronella van Rooyen has called on the Madlanga Commission in Pretoria to prioritize the legal implications of political interference in the South African Police Service. Speaking as the third witness yesterday, Van Rooyen emphasized that addressing these legal aspects could reduce future political meddling. Her testimony follows allegations against Police Minister Senzo Mchunu, who is accused of overstepping his authority by disbanding the KwaZulu-Natal Political Killings Task Team. The commission heard that only the National Police Commissioner has the power to make such structural decisions. Van Rooyen has concluded her testimony. Elvis Presslin spoke to crime expert, Thabang Bogopa

Hundreds of National Union of Mineworkers, NUM members will today embark on strike the ARM Andalusite mine in Thabazimbi, Limpopo. The workers, frustrated by two years without salary increases since 2023, are demanding better pay. The mine, a key producer of andalusite from the Maroeloesfontein deposit, was acquired by African Rainbow Minerals in 2022 after its previous owner, Andalusite Resources, entered business rescue. Elvis Presslin spoke to Dikeledi Manaka, NUM Rustenburg Regional Secretary. She's also the chief negotiator in the wage dispute

The Treatment Action Campaign and SECTION27 have strongly condemned plans to shutdown UNAIDS, a UN body coordinating the global fight against HIV/AIDS. UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres announced the possible closure, which critics say will devastate millions of lives and reverse years of progress in combating HIV. The agency has already faced severe staff cuts and global HIV funding plummeted in 2025, putting countless people at risk. Elvis Presslin spoke to Ritshidze Project Coordinator at the Treatment Action Campaign Ndivhuwo Rambau, to discuss the impact of this decision

Acting President Paul Mashatile has raised concern over the rising tide of drug and alcohol abuse among South Africa's youth. Speaking at Heritage Day celebrations in Oudtshoorn, Little Karoo, Mashatile called for united action from families, communities, civil society and government to address the crisis. He warned that substance abuse is not only damaging young lives but also driving unemployment and crime. Elvis Presslin spoke to Lucky Ntimane, National Liquor Traders Council spokesperson

The electoral commission of Malawi has officially declared Peter Mutharika the country's president elect. Incumbent President Lazarus Chakwera conceded defeat in the presidential election, just hours before the final results were set to be announced. Official tallies indicate former president Peter Mutharika, Chakwera's predecessor, has won the elections. Elvis Presslin spoke to SABC Malawi Correspondent, George Mhango

The Constitutional Court will today hear a pivotal case challenging the Sexual Offences Act's consent provisions in rape cases. Under the current Sexual Offences Act, a person charged with rape can avoid conviction by showing they reasonably believed the complainant consented, even if consent was not given. The court will decide whether to uphold a Pretoria High Court ruling that declared parts of the Act unconstitutional. The case was brought by The Embrace Project, a non-profit fighting gender-based violence with the support of rape survivour Inge Holztrager who was raped after being lured to a "party". Her attacker was acquitted. Elvis Presslin spoke to Lee-Anne Germanos Manuel, Director and Co-Founder of The Embrace Project

The Mpumalanga Provincial Legislature has unanimously adopted a motion to rename Kruger Mpumalanga International Airport in honour of the late former Deputy President David Dabede Mabuza. The decision, proposed by the Economic Freedom Fighters, EFF recognises Mabuza's significant contributions to the province and nation through his lifelong dedication to liberation, community upliftment and provincial development. Elvis Presslin spoke to EFF Mpumalanga Provincial Secretary Jackson Malatjie

The Afrika Mayibuye Movement is calling for immediate action on the worsening water crisis in Matsulu, Mpumalanga. The group has slammed what it calls ongoing shortages that have left residents without reliable access for weeks, hitting poor families hardest. Elvis Presslin spoke to Provincial Spokesperson for Afrika Mayibuye Movement in Mpumalanga, Zandile Zungu

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

In a landmark clash over land rights, the City of Ekurhuleni's 2019 expropriation of a 34-hectare plot in Driefontein, Boksburg, will head to court as South Africa's first major test of expropriation without compensation. The municipality reportedly seized portion 406 of Driefontein Farm, valued between R30 million and R64 million, to build social housing for landless residents. The municipality allegedly offered the private owner zero compensation in return. Sakeliga CEO Piet le Roux spoke to our Senior producer Ronald Phiri about what their legal challenge entails

The Gauteng Education Department has reaffirmed its commitment to provide schooling for every child in the province, regardless of citizenship or immigration status. Spokesperson Steve Mabona says admissions are governed strictly by Gauteng School Admission Regulations, prioritising feeder zones and capacity, not nationality. This follows Operation Dudula's campaign, urging schools to bar foreign nationals. Gauteng education spokesperson, Steve Mabona spoke to Elvis Presslin

The Madlanga Commission has heard that Police Minister Senzo Mchunu disbanded the Political Killings Task Team, while National police commissioner General Fannie Masemola was on leave, approved by him. That's according to Masemola, who testified about the disbandment of the team, which is at the centre of the probe against allegations of criminality, political interference, and corruption in the criminal justice system. Sibahle Motha filed a report and Elvis Presslin spoke to Dr. Dale McKinley, an Independent writer, researcher and lecturer

The United Democratic Movement has raised concern over a surge in illicit cigarettes and alcohol flooding South Africa's streets. The party say these operations are siphoning off billions in tax revenue, posing serious health risks to consumers and eroding trust in the country's law enforcement. In the latest busts, authorities in Musina, Limpopo, nabbed five SANDF soldiers and two undocumented Zimbabweans at the Artonvilla military base. Officers uncovered contraband cigarettes worth R300,000 stashed inside. Meanwhile, in the Cape Winelands, seven Somali nationals were arrested at a Klapmuts hideout packed with thousands of litres of ethanol and bootleg booze-making gear. And in Phoenix near Durban, police seized 1,500 bottles of fake alcohol valued at R468,000. Elvis Presslin spoke to Zandile Phiri, UDM Acting Secretary General

The Democratic Alliance said on Saturday that former mayor and premier in the Western Cape, Helen Zille would be its next candidate for mayor of Johannesburg. This as the party seeks to win back control of the country's biggest city in next year's local government election. Elvis Presslin spoke to Zille...

A new criminal case has been opened against the embattled Ngaka ModiriMolema District Municipality in Mahikeng, North West over the discharge of raw or poorly treated sewage from its wastewater treatment plants. The Department of Water and Sanitation has confirmed it's currently investigating three criminal cases against the municipality for transgressions at its Mahikeng, Mmabatho and Zeerust Wastewater Treatment Works. They received two additional dockets from police which includes a case opened earlier this month regarding the dysfunctional wastewater treatment plant in Sannieshof. Four additional cases, relating to the wastewater plants in Lichtenburg and Biesiesvlei have already been submitted to the NPA. Elvis Presslin spoke to DA Councillor in Tswaing Local Municipality, Carin Visser

The Independent Financial Advisors Forum, IFAF has slammed the City of Tshwane for pushing ahead with a tender to appoint a single medical aid broker for its employees. IFAF, a non-profit group representing accredited brokers, first flagged concerns last month after the City advertised the contract, which it says is irregular and unlawful. Elvis Presslin spoke to Deputy Chairperson of Independent Financial Advisors Forum (IFAF), Buti Sigasa

The Madlanga Commission of Inquiry into alleged political meddling in the South African Police Service is back in session today, with National Police Commissioner Fannie Masemola due to take the stand. His appearance follows a grueling three-day testimony from KwaZulu-Natal Police Commissioner Nhlanhla Mkhwanazi, who laid bare claims of interference in police operations. Commission sources say Masemola's evidence could shed fresh light on high-level pressures within SAPS, as the probe digs deeper into accusations of undue influence from political figures. Elvis Presslin spoke to Johan Booysen, former Head of the Hawks in KZN

President Cyril Ramaphosa will lead South Africa's delegation at the 80th United Nations General Assembly, in New York tomorrow, as international momentum builds for Palestinian statehood. On the eve of the session, several nations are poised to formally recognise an independent Palestine to amplify calls for a two-state solution. Ramaphosa's speech is expected to highlight South Africa's support for Palestine, while drawing parallels to our own anti-apartheid struggle. This as the country navigates its own tensions with the USA. For analysis on the matter, Elvis Presslin spoke to Dr. Kingsley Makhubela, a former diplomat and International Relations Expert

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

Organisations from Eswatini, including SWAYOCO and PUDEMO will today march to the US Embassy in Pretoria. They are protesting reports of a 500 million US dollars deal between King Mswati the Third and the United States to house convicted US criminals in Swaziland. The groups say the deal treats Swaziland like a "dumping site" and violates the country's sovereignty. Elvis Presslin spoke to Nhlanhla Magongo, Swaziland Youth Congress (SWAYOCO) Regional Secretary

The skills development community and retail sector will today gather in Sandton, Johannesburg, to celebrate 25 years of Sector Education and Training Authorities, SETAs. The 25th anniversary comes against a backdrop of challenges facing several SETAs, with questions raised about their performance and impact on human capital development. In the same breath, new Higher Education Minister Buti Manamela is expected to face parliamentary scrutiny over his decision to place SETAs under administration. The 25 year anniversary will see Wholesale and Retail SETA CEO leading the ceremony, alongside leaders from other SETAs, academia, industry and TVET graduates. For more on this milestone and the future of skills development in South Africa, Elvis Presslin spoke to Wholesale and Retail SETA CEO, Tom Mkhwanazi

KwaZulu-Natal police commissioner Lieutenant-General Nhlanhla Mkhwanazi has implicated two MPs in wrongdoing during his testimony at the Madlanga Commission of Inquiry into criminality and corruption in the justice system. He accused National Coloured Congress leader Fadiel Adams of accessing and misusing classified intelligence without authorisation, bypassing proper parliamentary channels to make unverified claims that led to an arrest in crime intelligence. Mkhwanazi also accused DA MP Dianne Kohler Barnard with abusing her role by publicly disclosing secrets, inciting attacks on the unit and flouting oversight rules over a controversial R22 million Durban property deal. Both deny the allegations. The Commission resumes today at the Brigitte Mabandla Justice College. Elvis Presslin spoke to DA MP, Dianne Kohler Barnard

ActionSA says a new book by Investigative Journalists Pauli van Wyk and Micah Reddy is a compromised work pursuing a political agenda against party leader Herman Mashaba. The party claims the book distorts facts and fairness, alleging Mashaba ignored wrongdoing by the EFF in Johannesburg when he was mayor. Elvis Presslin spoke to ActionSA National Chairperson, Michael Beaumont

The National Student Financial Aid Scheme, NSFAS, has announced new funding measures to tackle a major shortfall for the 2025 academic year. NSFAS and the Department of Higher Education and Training will now support 34,000 students with blocked registrations and 15,000 second-semester registrations by reallocating R13.3 billion from its existing budget. Elvis Presslin spoke to NSFAS Spokesperson, Ishmael Mnisi

A legal battle has erupted over the late Deputy President David Mabuza's R44.7 million pension payout. Tamara Silinda, Mabuza's daughter, has filed a high court application to block the full amount from being paid to Mabuza's widow, Nonhlanhla Patience Mnisi. Silinda is claiming a portion of the funds for her living and education expenses. She argues her mother was also married to Mabuza under customary law. Elvis Presslin spoke to Legal analyst, Clarisa Vermaak

The Democratic Alliance in Gauteng will stage a picket today outside the Levai Mbatha Clinic in Emfuleni to protest against alleged cadre deployment and nepotism. The DA claims that ward councillor and Emfuleni Speaker, Sibongile Soxuza, hired her husband, son and individuals with ties to ANC officials for a clinic pavement construction tender and sidelined local jobseekers. The DA is demanding transparency and fairness in the tender process. Elvis Presslin spoke to Kingsol Chabalala, DA Emfuleni North Constituency Head

South African Police Service national spokesperson Athlenda Mathe says an AK-47 assault rifle and two other firearms, seized in connection with controversial businessmen Vusimuzi 'Cat' Matlala and Katiso 'KT' Molefe, have been linked to 18 murder and attempted murder cases, as well as other serious crimes. Elvis Presslin spoke to National Police spokesperson, Brigadier Athlenda Mathe

The Madlanga Commission, investigating alleged infiltration of South Africa's Criminal Justice System by organized crime syndicates, will today continue to hear further testimony from KZN Police Commissioner, Lieutenant-General Nhlanhla Mkhwanazi. Mkhwanazi, who yesterday warned of a potential collapse of the system and reiterated the urgent need for intervention to prevent a breakdown. The Commission continues to probe systemic vulnerabilities as concerns mount over the integrity of law enforcement. Elvis Presslin spoke to Mbekezeli Benjamin, Researcher and Advocacy officer at Judges Matter

The Madlanga Commission, investigating criminality, political interference, and corruption in South Africa's justice system, starts its work today after multiple delays. Led by retired Constitutional Court Justice Mbuyiseli Madlanga, the inquiry was prompted by claims from KwaZulu-Natal Police Commissioner Nhlanhla Mkhwanazi. He alleged that Police Minister Senzo Mchunu disbanded the Political Killings Task Team without consultation and transferred 121 active cases to Deputy Commissioner Shadrack Sibiya's office, where they were reportedly stalled. Meanwhile, the uMkhonto weSizwe Party has demanded the commission's suspension pending a Pretoria High Court ruling on its legality. Elvis Presslin spoke to MK Party Spokesperson, Nhlamulo Ndhlela

The South African National Taxi Council (SANTACO) in the Western Cape has expressed concern over the provincial government's decision to close several taxi routes. As of today, several taxi routes will be closed for 30 days due to ongoing violence and instability in the public transport sector. SANTACO has expressed concern over the impact on taxi operators' livelihoods and related businesses but acknowledged the measure's intent to safeguard lives. Elvis Presslin spoke to Western Cape MEC for Transport, Isaac Sileku