The Weekend View

The search operation of the missing member of SANDF in the Nkomazi River in Komatipoort, Mpumalanga, yielded no results following the retrieval of an SANDF vehicle with a crane. The divers recovered the member's rifles and a bag inside the vehicle. However, one member remain missing and the search operation continues. The members were trying to cross the river from Komatipoort to the Lebombo Border Post on the lower bridge, when the vehicle was swept by the water and got trapped. Motsebi wa Monareng reports...

Gauteng police have launched a manhunt for a gang of suspects who bombed and robbed a cash-in-transit van along Khumalo Street in Thokoza, Ekurhuleni on Saturday. During the robbery a thirteen-year-old girl was hit by a stray bullet and was taken to hospital. The gang fled in four vehicles vehicles with an undisclosed amount of cash. SABC NEWS REPORTER, Culvin Mabasa, reports.

The department of Cooperative Governance and Traditional Affairs has managed to reduce the number of dysfunctional municipalities from 66 in 2023 to 38 in 2025. Last year, the minister of COGTA, Velenksosini Hlabisa had given the country's dysfunctional municipalities less than 24 months to return to normalcy. Part of National government's broad intervention has been to put several of these ailing municipalities under administration and establish the Ministerial Development Programme - which has so far visited 80 municipalities. Zara Groenewald reports…

Voters in Guinea are preparing to cast their ballots today in the country's first presidential election since the 2021 military coup. The vote marks a key step in the West African nation's return to civilian rule, with experts widely expecting junta leader, General Mamadi Doumbouya to secure victory. Meanwhile, in the Central African Republic, citizens will also head to the polls today for presidential and legislative elections. Incumbent President Faustin-Archange Touadéra, in power since 2016, is favored to win a third term after a 2023 constitutional change abolished presidential term limits. For more on this we are joined by African Centre for Governance Election Observation Mission deputy head, Tendai Mbanje

As the festive season holidays are well underway, Which are meant to be joyful moments filled with family gatherings, times when people come together at the end of the year to spend quality time with their loved ones. Yet, loneliness often hits hardest during this period, even when surrounded by others. The South African Depression and Anxiety Group (SADAG) has released the results of its 2025 Festive Feeling Study, which reveals that 45% of people reported feeling very lonely during previous festive seasons. Meanwhile, 69% of respondents feel anxious about not having enough money to spoil or support their loved ones this December. Elvis Presslin spoke to Tracy Feinstein, SADAG's Call Centre Manager

As the 2026 Legends Township Marathon approaches, the Founder of the Marathon, noted that for nearly three decades the Marathon is a living, breathing testament to the enduring community spirit of Eldorado Park and has become a movement dedicated to healthy lifestyles, youth empowerment, economic development, community resilience and social upliftment. Elvis Presslin spoke to the Founder of the now Legends Township Marathon, Joe Morris

As South Africans prepare to welcome the New Year, the NSPCA has sounded the alarm on fireworks and the terror they bring to animals, as well as the severe distress caused to pets and wildlife by loud explosions. The organisation warns that loud bangs trigger extreme distress, causing pets to panic, flee their homes, get lost, or become injured in accidents. Various municipalities allow private fireworks only from 11pm to 1am on New Year's Eve. Lighting them near animals, hospitals, or petrol stations is strictly prohibited and can lead to hefty fines. Elvis Presslin spoke to SPCSA spokesperson, Samantha Stelli

The National Consumer Commission (NCC) has announced a nationwide recall of specific Domestos Lemon and Domestos Summer Fresh (750ml) variants manufactured between August and September 2025. The recall is due to a an alleged pinhole defect at the bottom of some bottles that causes leakage when pressure is applied. Unilever South Africa has warned of possible product spillage as a result of the defect. Elvis Presslin spoke to NCC Spokesperson, Phetho Ntaba

Bafana Bafana's 27 winning streak came to an abrupt halt fallowing a controversial penalty win by Egypt in their second 2025 Afcon game. A controversial Mohamed Salah penalty sent Egypt through to the last-16 of the Africa Cup of Nations despite being down to 10 men for the whole of the second half against South Africa, who were denied a penalty of their own right at the death. Elvis Presslin spoke to SABC sports journalist, Vincent Sitsula

The Department of Transport says its festive season preliminary road safety report shows a decline in fatalities compared to the same period last year. According to the report, there's been a 20-point-nine-percent reduction in fatal crashes and a 20-point-eight-percent reduction in fatalities from the 1st of December till the 16th of December. The department has also revealed that the average number of road fatalities per day stands at 32, which is the lowest in five years. The department's Deputy Minister, Mkhuleko Hlengwa says law enforcement authorities have however noticed an increase in reckless overtaking as well as drinking and driving incidents. Elvis Presslin spoke to Road Traffic Management Corporation (RTMC) Spokesperson, Simon Zwane

The Department of Women, Youth and Persons with Disabilities has called on teenage boys and girls, parents, educators and communities to intensify efforts to prevent adolescent pregnancies. The department says teen pregnancies continue to undermine health and education for young people in South Africa. Statistics show the number of teenagers falling pregnant is increasing. This is confirmed by the increasing number of teenage mothers who gave birth on Christmas Day. The department's Spokesperson, Cassius Selala says teenage girls must be empowered with knowledge, self confidence and support, in order for them to make informed decisions about their bodies in future. Elvis Presslin spoke to Minister in the department of Women, Youth and Persons with Disabilities, Sindisiwe Chikunga

The US air strikes in the North West of Nigeria has been received with mixed feelings in the continent, some claiming the move violate African sovereignty. Meanwhile, Nigeria's government has confirmed it was involved in an intelligence gathering that led to the US air strikes. Elvis Presslin spoke to Security Strategist and Retired Interpol Ambassador, Andy Mashaile

The wait is now over for football lovers across the African continent as the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations tournament in Morocco is just hours away. The 35th edition of Africa's flagship football tournament will be staged across the Christmas and New Year period for the first time ever. Hosts Morocco will kick-off the tournament THIS EVENING against Comoros at the Stade Prince Moulay Abdallah at 9pm. With 24 teams vying for glory across six host cities, Agadir, Casablanca, Fes, Marrakesh, Rabat, and Tangier, the tournament promises to be a spectacular showcase of a new generation of African soccer talent. Bafana Bafana travelled to Morocco on Wednesday and will kick-off their campaign against Angola TOMORROW. The game is set for 7pm at the Stade de Marrakech. A win would place Bafana in a strong position in Group B and relieve pressure ahead of tougher fixtures. Our senior sports reporter, Sifiso Ramara, was out on the streets of Marrakech to speak to some of the fans. To further unpack the AFCON 2025 tournament, Elvis Presslin spoke to Far-Post soccer journalist Mthokozisi Dube as well as former professional player and current development coach, Calvin "Soso" Sosibo...

Police have launched a manhunt for 12 suspects involved in a shooting in the Tambo section of Bekkersdal, Gauteng, where nine people were killed and ten others wounded at the KwaNoxolo tavern in the early hours of Sunday. Authorities say around twelve unknown suspects arrived in a white kombi and a silver sedan, opening fire on patrons just before 1am. They continued to shoot randomly while fleeing the scene. Elvis Presslin spoke to SAPS National Spokesperson, Brig. Athlenda Mathe

The March and March movement has called on the government to declare a state of emergency in the wake of the murder of DJ Warras. Leader of the March and March movement, Jacinta Ngobese-Zuma, has criticized the government for failing to tackle escalating criminality and the crisis of hijacked buildings. Elvis Presslin spoke to the leader of the March to March Movement, Jacinta Ngobese-Zuma.

The Border Management Authority has ramped up law enforcement for the festive season, intensifying operations at ports of entry and vulnerable borderline sections to enhance security. The border authority says the processing of travelers and goods continues smoothly nationwide as operations began effectively in early December, with heightened measures amid expected surges. They are expecting a major influx this weekend followed by another peak ahead of Christmas reunions. For more on this, Elvis Presslin spoke to the Border Management Authority's Commissioner, Dr Mike Masiapato.

Over the years we as South Africans have coined a few phrases that are often associated with the month of January like..." January has few months in it" or "The unforgiving month with a financial hangover" and my more. The problem is not the month itself but the spending patterns in December. The National Credit Regulator is calling on all consumers to exercise strict financial caution during this festive season to avoid starting 2026 overwhelmed by debt and financial distress. With approximately 10 million South Africans already over-indebted, the organisation warns that impulsive spending,social pressure, and easy access to credit continue to push many households into unsustainable financial situation. To talk to us on this Elvis Presslin spoke to the Senior Education and Communications Officer at the National Credit Regulator, Jimmy Golele.....

The Deputy Minister of Cooperative Governance and Traditional Affairs, Prince Zolile Burns-Ncamashe, has issued a strong appeal to parents to take full responsibility for the safety of their children during the initiation season. Ncamashe says parents must be actively present and involved when their sons attend initiation schools, instead of handing them over to individuals who show little regard for their wellbeing. He stresses that parental abdication of responsibility is contributing to preventable tragedies.Ncamashe's comments follow the tragic loss of 17 initiates during the current summer initiation season, which began in November 2025. The rising death toll has sparked widespread concern among government, traditional leaders, families and communities. Ncamashe conducted an urgent oversight visit to several areas in the Eastern Cape this week, calling for accountability and decisive action to prevent further loss of life. Elvis Presslin spoke to the Eastern Cape Cogta spokesperson, Pheello Oliphant.

The Nkabinde Inquiry has turned down National Director of Public Prosecutions Shamila Batohi's bid to expand its terms of reference. Batohi brought the application to amend the terms during her testimony. President Cyril Ramaphosa suspended Gauteng DPP Advocate Andrew Chauke earlier this year while the inquiry assessed his fitness to hold office, a probe sparked by allegations from Batohi herself. It's scrutinising claims of dubious decisions in major cases, including racketeering charges against ex-KZN Hawks boss Johan Booysen and the alleged Cato Manor death squad, plus the dropping of serious charges against former Crime Intelligence head Richard Mdluli. During her testimony and subsequent cross-examination by Chauke's legal team, Batohi distanced herself from the formal terms of reference issued by Ramaphosa. For more on this, Elvis Presslin spoke to the Nkabinde Inquiry's spokesperson, Tiyisela Mpuzana.

As people head to coastal resorts this festive season, more and more incidents of drowning are being reported and several deaths recorded with the latest case involving a teenager who fell from a cliff in the Garden Route National Park. It is against this backdrop that the National Sea Rescue Institute - NSRI - is urging beachgoers to exercise caution during this new moon spring tide, which peaks TODAY, (Saturday 20 December), as it will significantly affect tidal conditions over this weekend. To tell us more, Elvis Presslin spoke to NSRI Communications Manager Andrew Ingram.

Until the South African Communist Party and African National Congress have reached an agreement on the Communist party's decision to contest the 2026 local government elections alone, SACP members must recuse themselves from ANC elections structures. This was just one of the resolutions of the ANC's 5th National General Council that concluded on Thursday. The SACP's decision concerns the ANC as many of its members have dual membership to both parties with implications on which party to vote and campaign for. To take a deeper look at the state of the tripartite alliance following the ANC's 5th National General Council, Bongiwe Zwane spoke to SACP Spokesperson Mbulelo Mandlana and Political Analyst from the University of the Free State, Prof. Sethulego Matebesi...

Four bodies have been retrieved from the rubble of the collapsed temple building in Verulam, north of Durban. Search and rescue operations are expected to resume this hour as rescuers continue the search for the fifth body. Bongiwe Zwane spoke to Senzelwe Mzila, spokesperson for the KZN Department of Co-operative Governance and Traditional Affairs (COGTA).

While the festive season is a time to reconnect and embrace the warmth of family, in South Africa the holiday season is unfortunately also a time associated with increased risk to women with a resultant increase in Gender Based Violence. It is against this backdrop that the National Shelter Movement of South Africa - NSMSA - is calling for urgent awareness and support as it announces the toll-free, 24-hour National GBV Shelter Helpline – the only national service dedicated solely to the rapid placement of survivors into safe houses and shelters, operating around the clock. To tell us more, Bongiwe Zwane spoke to Lucia Mogale, a helpline agent at the National Shelter Movement of South Africa ...

While much of the focus has been on the Madlanga Commission and the Ad-Hoc Committee, there is another inquiry that has heard jaw-dropping testimony in Parliament. The Standing Committee on Public Accounts probe has revealed shocking allegations of lengthy disciplinary processes and exorbitant amounts spent to protect the entity's former CEO, among other serious inefficiencies in the Road Accident Fund - RAF. The RAF board recently placed its acting CEO, CFO, Chief Governance Officer and the Head of the CEO's office on precautionary suspension. There are now reports that a new acting CEO has been appointed, bringing to four the number of CEO's the entity has had in the past seven months. With questions still unanswered over the RAF's multi billion rand accounting hole, Scopa will now pursue criminal charges to compel former CEO Collins Letsoalo to appear and account for his decisions. To help us understand why the RAF is susceptible to so much instability and corruption, Bongiwe Zwane spoke to former SCOPA chair, Themba Godi

DRC rebel forces THIS WEEK entered the last government-held city in the country's mineral-rich eastern province, in an offensive that has forced thousands to flee across the border into Burundi. The escalation in fighting and takeover of Uvira comes despite the peace deal brokered by US President Donald Trump last week between DRC's President Félix Tshisekedi and Rwanda's Paul Kagame to end the long-running conflict. On Thursday the M23 rebel group said it had "liberated" the city. Control of Uvira could open the way for the rebels to advance beyond South Kivu province. To help us understand the situation, Bongiwe Zwane spoke to Godber Tumushabe, Associate Director at the Great Lakes Institute for Strategic Studies, in Uganda.

With festive spending at its peak, cash-strapped consumers have been advised to consider taking up part-time work to cushion the impact of the high cost of living on their Christmas shopping. Financial advice platforms such as JustMoney say a concerning number of consumers fear that their finances will not meet the demands placed on them. This was revealed in JustMoney's recent large-scale survey, which revealed that 61% of South Africans struggle financially every month, with December and January posing the toughest financial challenges for millions of South Africans. For a look at how consumers can supplement their income this festive season, Bongiwe Zwane spoke to Head of Customer Experience at JustMoney, Sarah Nicholson

Long distance taxi operators have been warned to prioritise passenger safety over this busy festive season. As thousands of holidaymakers begin their festive season travels across the country, in Cape Town, the South African National Taxi Council hosted safety awareness engagements with various stakeholders, including the Western Cape Department of Mobility and the Cape Organisation for the Democratic Taxi Association (Codeta). In Johannesburg, the metro says it is turning to smart technology to improve safety during this period, as law enforcement officials armed will be armed with smart hand-held devices that will issue infringement notices within minutes and also capture motor vehicle accident data instantly. For a look at how the national roads are looking with the festive season starting in earnest, Bongiwe Zwane spoke to Road Traffic Management Corporation Spokesperson, Simon Zwane

At least one person has been killed and about 14 others were rescued with injuries when a Hindu temple collapsed in Redcliffe, Verulam.Builders were working on the multi-storey temple when it crashed down, trapping at least five people. A preliminary report from the Ethekwini Municipality says the building was illegal as it did not have approved building plans. Zanele Buthelezi has more

ANC Deputy President Paul Mashatile has dismissed claims that President Cyril Ramaphosa will not complete his five-year term. Speaking at a media briefing with the Parliamentary Press Gallery Association on Thursday, Mashatile said the upcoming ANC National General Council (NGC) discussions should not be misinterpreted as succession battles. The ANC is preparing for its National General Council, which starts tomorrow (8–11 December) at the Birchwood Hotel and Conference Centre in Boksburg. The four-day meeting is intended to review and assess the party's implementation of resolutions from the ANC's 55th National Conference in 2022. Bongiwe Zwane spoke to SABC Politics Reporter, Samkele Maseko and Political Analyst and Leadership Expert, Proferssor Mazwe Majola

The United Nations Human Rights Chief is warning that Sudan risked another El Fasher amidst fierce fighting that was now spreading across the central Kordofan region that is raising fresh fears of further atrocities. The paramilitary Rapid Support Forces seized the capital of North Darfur last month following a year long siege, marked by widespread killings of civilians, sexual violence and torture among other atrocities. The group has been locked in a battle since April 2023 with the Sudan Armed Forces as the focus of fighting now shifts to the three oil-rich Kordofan states amid reports the United States is considering a broad range of sanctions on groups blocking efforts to achieve a ceasefire in Sudan. Sherwin Bryce-Pease reports

Betway Premiership log leaders, Orlando Pirates, have secured a second knockout cup this season. The Buccaneers, who were crowned MTN-8 champions in September, needed a goal in extra time to break down a gritty Marumo Gallants at the Peter Mokaba Stadium in Polokwane. Relief finally arrived for Pirates just before the end of the first half of extra time. Striker, Relebohile Mofokeng found the back of the net, breaking the deadlock at last. That decisive moment proved enough, as the Buccaneers held firm to secure a 1-nil victory and lift the Carling Knockout crown, completing a cup double. Bongiwe Zwane spoke to SABC sports repoter Vincent Sitsula

The National Joint Operational and Intelligence Structure (NATJOINTS) and the Madlanga Commission have confirmed that they will brief the media in due course over the killing of Marius van der Merwe, also referred to as Witness D during his testimony at the commission. Members of the security cluster met on Saturday, where they identified a need to heighten security measures with the assistance of the NATJOINTS and other role players. As investigations proceed into van der Merwe's death, the Madlanga Commission and the NATJOINS have urged members of the public to not speculate about his killing. For more on the meeting, we are joined on the line by National Police Spokesperson, Athlenda Mathe and Political Analyst, Dr Dale McKinely

ActionSA has condemned the killing of the Madlanga Commission of Inquiry's 'Witness D'. He was shot and killed in front of his family in the driveway of their home in Brakpan in the east of Johannesburg yesterday evening. The party says that relevant authorities should make the protection of whistleblowers and witnesses their priority. It has called on law enforcement officers to swiftly arrest those who are responsible for the killing. Bongiwe Zwane spoke to Police Spokesperson, Brig Athlenda Mathe

As the festive season gets well underway, consumers have been warned to exercise caution when transacting, particularly when making online purchases. In an effort to address this, one of South Africa's biggest banking facilities, Capitec, has rolled out an AI-driven security ecosystem, which has prevented more than R300 million in fraud this year. The bank says this initiative has also blocked 80-thousand mule accounts and stopped 200-thousand scam payments. With social-engineering scams increasing sharply over the holidays, Capitec's leaders believe public education is more critical than ever. For more on how consumers can better secure their banking platforms, Bongiwe Zwane spoke to Head of Financial Crimes at Capitec, Nick Harris...

ActionSA has condemned the killing of the Madlanga Commission of Inquiry's 'Witness D'. He was shot and killed in front of his family in the driveway of their home in Brakpan in the east of Johannesburg yesterday evening. The party says that relevant authorities should make the protection of whistleblowers and witnesses their priority. It has called on law enforcement officers to swiftly arrest those who are responsible for the killing. Bongiwe Zwane spoke to Security Strategist and Retired Interpol Ambassador, Andy Mashaila

South Africa has hit back at United States (US) Secretary of State Marco Rubio after he announced that Washington will not invite Pretoria to the G20 during the US presidency. In a detailed response, the South African government says no single country has the authority to bar a founding G20 member. Pretoria dismissed Rubio's claims that South Africa harbours racism or tolerates violence against Afrikaner citizens, calling the allegations false and misleading. SA's International Relations and Cooperation Minister, Ronald Lamola has penned a strongly worded statement reasserting Pretoria's constitutional commitments, its democratic transformation, and its continued push for inclusive economic growth. Bongiwe Zwane spoke to Dr. Kingsley Makhubela, Former Diplomat & Conflict Resolution Expert

The Congress of South African Trade Unions marks its 40th anniversary with a celebratory rally taking place at Dobsonville Stadium. COSATU, founded at the height of apartheid, grew into a powerful voice for workers, driving national strikes, shaping labour policy, and championing key gains such as the minimum wage, gender equality, HIV treatment access, and major economic interventions, including support for Eskom and job-saving efforts. The union's milestone comes as the Tripartite Alliance faces increasing internal strife. The SACP has signalled plans to contest the 2026 local government elections independently, accusing the ANC of repeatedly failing to honour commitments to reconfigure the alliance. To look at the relevance and impact of trade unions in post-democratic South Africa, Bongiwe Zwane spoke to Mbhazima Shilowa, former premier of Gauteng and former general secretary of Cosatu

Orlando Pirates head into today's Carling Knockout final at Peter Mokaba Stadium determined to end a 14-year drought in the competition. The match which kicks-off today at 18:00, Polokwane is sold out and expected to be packed to the rafters. Buccaneers captain Nkosinathi Sibisi says the long wait has fired up the squad, while coach Abdeslam Ouaddou credits their recent momentum to hard work and strong fan support. However, Marumo Gallants will arrive with full confidence after knocking out several big teams on their way to the final. Both sides insist they are ready for battle in front of a capacity crowd in Polokwane. Bongiwe Zwane spoke to SABC sports reporter Vincent Sitsula

The Chief of the South African Navy, Vice Admiral Monde Lobese recently came under fire following his criticism of National Treasury's decision to reduce funding for the country's naval state security operations. Speaking to members of the navy, Lobese made a frank and candid assessment of the South African Navy and an admission that borders are porous due to underfunding. He added that while South Africans ensure that their doors and gates are locked, in order to keep intruders out, South Africa's shorelines have become a haven from criminals trafficking in humans and drugs. Lobese's assessment enlisted heavy criticism from the Defence department with some observers calling the condemnation unfair. For a look at what the actual budget is for the Navy and what is informing budget cuts , Jon Gericke spoke to Defence Analyst and Associate Editor at The Daily Friend, Ricardo Teixeira

The Activists and Citizens Forum has described alleged criminal cartel kingpin, Vusimuzi "Cat" Matlala's appearance before Parliament's Ad Hoc Committee, as a waste of time and tax payer money. This comes after Matlala concluded his 2 days of testimony before the committee as members of Parliament investigate allegations of corruption and political interference in the country's justice system. The Forum has also accused Matlala of misdirecting the interaction with Parliamentarians with the aim to protect people who are behind his lavish lifestyle. The committee, has wound up it's work foreo this year but will continue until the 20th of February next year. For a look at what the committee has been able to achieve since it's inception, Jon Gericke spoke to political analyst, Professor Bheki Mngomezulu and Acting Director of the Center for Security, Peace and Conflict Resolution at Nelson Mandela University, Prof Ntsikelelo Breakfast

The Springboks finished the 2025 season in style with a 73-0 demolition of Wales in Cardiff YESTERDAY, inflicting a record home defeat on their hosts. It was the second worst defeat in Wales' history behind the 96-13 hammering handed out by the Springboks in Pretoria in 1998.Meanwhile in continental soccer, Kaizer Chiefs snatched a last-gasp 1-all draw against Egyptian giants Zamalek in their CAF Confederation Cup Group C encounter at the New Peter Mokaba Stadium in Polokwane YESTERDAY afternoon. To review these intriguing matches, Jon Gericke spoke to Simon Burke, SABC sports reporter

Springbok captain Siya Kolisi says Wales will get a well prepared South African side when the two sides meet in Cardiff on Saturday in the final match of the international season. The Springboks are shooting for a second successive unbeaten end of year tour, and enter their final match of the year as the overwhelming favourites against Wales. Meanwhile in continental soccer....Mamelodi Sundowns earned a valuable Champions League away point after they played to a goalless draw with Algerian side MC Alger at the Ali La Pointe Stadium LAST NIGHT. While Sundowns coach Miguel Cardoso appears happy with the result, this is not what Rulani Mokwena was looking for as Alger are struggling with one point from two matches. Sundowns may be overtaken at the top of Group C by Al Hilal who take on Saint-Éloi Lupopo tomorrow. Chiefs will TODAY host Egyptian side Zamalek FC in the second game of the Group D encounter at Peter Mokaba stadium in Polokwane this afternoon. To look at these matches, Jon Gericke spoke to Mathews Mpete, SABC soccer analyst

As the renewal season for medical aid cover draws to a close, consumers have been urged to thoroughly study what their current medical aid covers and what the competition is offering for the same price bracket. The sector's renewal window opens every October and closes in December, with members notified of the upcoming year's changes and their medical aid's plans for the next financial year. The expected premium increases come as many households grapple under the pressure of rising food, electricity, and fuel prices. For more on what consumers should look out for, Jon Gericke spoke to Head of Research at the Board of Healthcare Funders, Charlton Murove

The Council for the advancement of the South African Constitution (CASAC) has criticised the criteria used to select candidates for the position of National Director of Public Prosecution, saying the advisory panel tasked with selecting the next NDPP focused too much on legal practitioners handling high-profile cases, while discriminating against those in lower courts. Six candidates have now been shortlisted to move forward to the next stage of interviews. The list includes names such as Advocate Nicolette Astraid Bell, whose previous work includes her role as Acting Director of Public Prosecutions in the Western Cape and Chairperson of the Global Coalition to Fight Financial Crime, Advocate Xolisile Jennifer Khanyile. The appointment of a new NDPP comes at a crucial time for the justice system, with high expectations for the office to ensure accountability within the country's prosecution services. For a look at how the recruitment process normally looks like and how it can be improved, Jon Gericke spoke to Research and Advocacy Officer at Judges Matter, Mbekezeli Benjamin

Acting Police Minister, Professor Firoz Cachalia says the biggest takeaway from the latest quarterly crime statistics is the clear picture they provide of crime trends across the first half of the 2025/26 financial year. Cachalia made these remarks during the release of the Quarterly Crime Statistics for the first and second quarters of the 2025/26 financial year at a press briefing in Pretoria. He says the statistics remain an important tool for measuring progress and guiding the country's crime‑fighting response and in restoring public trust in the police is critical. The data is critical for identifying hotspots, adjusting policing strategies and improving accountability within the criminal‑justice cluster and tackling gang violence. For more on the crime stats, Jon Gericke spoke to National Police Spokesperson, Brigadier Athlenda Mathe

President Cyril Ramaphosa says the decision to allow a group of 153 Palestinians nationals into the country was driven by compassion, however their status is still being reviewed. This comes after the Border Management Authority initially denied entry to the group due to incomplete documentation. According to the BMA, the Palestinian passengers were not allowed to disembark from the aircraft as they did not have the customary departure stamps in their passports. The passengers were later allowed to disembark after nearly 12 hours on the tarmac, after Home Affairs received a commitment from Gift of the Givers that it will provide the passengers with accommodation during their stay in South Africa. The handling of the flight and the arrival of the refugees have raised serious questions about government communication and coordination. Bongiwe Zwane spoke to Senior Research Fellow at the Centre for African Diplomacy and Leadership at the University of Johannesburg, Dr Oscar van Heerden

United States (US) President Donald Trump has rolled back tariffs on over a 100 food products, including such staples as coffee, beef, bananas and oranges, in the face of growing anger among American consumers about the high cost of groceries. He signed an executive order on Friday allowing a range of food products to escape his sweeping tariffs. The move comes as his administration faces mounting pressure over rising food prices. The US is an important market for South African citrus fruit and other agricultural products and there were huge concerns when Trump's tariffs came into effect earlier this year. We asked Wandile Sihlobo, Chief Economist at the Agricultural Business Chamber of South Africa, what he makes of the tariff rollback and whether South Africa can derive some benefit. This is what he said

The G20 will be diminished under the leadership of the United States that will assume the Presidency of the bloc from South Africa later this month. That's the view of leading development economist Prof Jayati Ghosh, who also serves as a member of the G20 Extraordinary Committee of Independent Experts on Global Inequality. Ghosh, who is a development economist based at the University of Massachusetts-Amherst, was responding to various statement by senior United States (US) Government officials who've cast aspersions about South Africa's theme of Solidarity, Equality and Sustainability while promising to whittle the bloc back down to basics when Washington assumes the leadership mantle ahead of hosting next year's Leaders' Summit in Miami, Florida. SABC's US Correspondent Sherwin Bryce-Pease filed this report

Thousands of people have marched through the streets of Belem in Brazil to demand stronger action on tackling global warming as the United Nations' COP 30 climate summit continues in the city. The rally to mark the summit's halfway point has been billed as the Great People's March by organisers. It comes as the host Brazil's proposal for an accelerated roadmap away from fossil fuels appears to be gathering support. As the conference continues, African leaders are keen to showcase and promote their climate strategies on the global stage. For more on what the COP30 summit means for the African continent, Bongiwe Zwane spoke to Green Peace Africa Political Strategist, Koaile Monaheng

South African consumers have been urged to shop responsibly as retailers begin to advertise Black Friday deals, just weeks before the annual Christmas shopping rush. The warning comes as millions of consumers buckle under the pressure of a rising cost of living and high unemployment rates, which have left some shoppers unable to access much credit. Instead of impulsive buying, shoppers have been advised to maximise the savings from Black Friday deals to cover Christmas gifts or even back-to-school essentials. For more on how YOU, the consumer can navigate this period, Bongiwe Zwane spoke to National Consumer Commission Spokesperson, Pheto Ntaba

The Johannesburg Metro Police Department has urged motorists and residents of the city to prepare for temporary road closures and intermittent traffic disruptions, as multiple law enforcement agencies conduct joint traffic operations ahead of next week's G20 Leaders' Summit. The coordinated exercise will take place tomorrow from nine o'clock in the morning until one o'clock in the afternoon. Major national and regional routes such as the N1, M1, and N12 will be affected. Arterial and urban routes affected include Rivonia Road, Grayston Drive, Rand Show Road, Nasrec Road and the Golden Highway. For more on this, Bongiwe Zwane spoke to JMPD Spokesperson, Xolani Fihla