The Midday Report with Mandy Wiener

This episode covers significant legal developments regarding the Madlanga Commission and President Cyril Ramaphosa's application to interdict the Palapala impeachment inquiry to prevent reputational harm. The report details the postponement of Kat Matlala's testimony due to potential self-incrimination and ongoing disputes surrounding Suleiman Karim's appearance. Additionally, the episode explores legal arguments regarding parliamentary accountability, news on the NPA's appeal in the Omotoso case, and Fikile Mbalula's testimony. The program also features listener interactions regarding football predictions and political discussions, alongside reports on Mandela Day plans in the Eastern Cape.

EWN reporter Demakazo Leshoro provides an update on a media briefing conducted by presidential spokesperson Vincent Maguena. The briefing covers several high-stakes topics, including the diplomatic fallout from anti-illegal immigration protests and allegations of a campaign to isolate South Africa as a pariah state within the African continent. Maguena addresses claims regarding the treatment of South African businesses in nations like Ghana and Nigeria, emphasizing the mutually beneficial nature of economic ties. Additionally, the briefing touches upon the President's legal defense in an ongoing Cape Town court case and references a UN report concerning the conflict between Israel and Palestine.

This episode features an interview with Azola Murano, an Eastern Cape organizer for the March and March group, regarding the organization's plans for Mandela Day. The group intends to repurpose the traditional 67 minutes of service to focus on a campaign to remove undocumented immigrants from the Eastern Cape province. Murano outlines a plan to work alongside police and immigration officials to identify and deport illegal foreigners, asserting that the initiative is a response to national frustrations regarding immigration.

ATM parliamentary leader Vuyo Zungula discusses the party's opposition to President Ramaphosa's legal application regarding the Palapala matter. The discussion focuses on the tension between presidential concerns over reputational harm and Parliament's constitutional obligation to hold the executive accountable through impeachment processes. Zungula distinguishes between political motions of no confidence under Section 102 and the legal process of addressing constitutional misconduct under Section 89. He argues that the current proceedings involve an independent panel designed to evaluate facts and merits, asserting that the functionality of Parliament must supersede any perceived personal humiliation of public officials.

This episode covers the intense legal proceedings at the Madlanga Commission of Inquiry, focusing on a heated exchange between advocate Anneli Fellmanova and Justice Mbuiseli Madlanga. The report details the application for postponement by Kat Matlala's legal team, who argued that testifying during an ongoing criminal trial poses a risk of self-incrimination following the collapse of recent plea negotiations. The coverage includes insights from EWN reporter Alfa Ramashwana regarding the commission's decision to grant the postponement until September 1st, contingent on the submission of a written statement. The episode also touches upon the tension in the courtroom and subsequent arguments regarding the non-appearance of Suleiman Karim.

An urgent application has been brought by President Cyril Ramaphosa in the Western Cape High Court to interdict the Palapala impeachment inquiry from proceeding. Represented by Advocate Wim Trengove, SC, the President argues that proceeding before a high court review of the underlying report would cause significant reputational harm and leave him publicly pilloried. The application seeks a pause of approximately two to three months to allow for the testing of evidence regarding allegations of misconduct. The impeachment committee, represented by Advocate William McCurry, is opposing the application. Other political parties, including the MKP, EFF, and UAT, are also present in court to contest the application. While the President's legal team argues against the sufficiency of the evidence presented in the report, opposing counsel has characterized claims of avoiding accountability as political hogwash.

This episode covers major South African news stories, including Brian Padayachi's testimony at the Madlanga Commission regarding allegations of unlawful surveillance and political interference. The report also details President Ramaphosa's High Court application to interdict the impeachment committee and an investigation into the Public Investment Corporation (PIC) involving a suspicious transaction and the suspension of its CEO. Additionally, the episode features updates on South Africa's Special Economic Zones, local Johannesburg water maintenance plans, and legal challenges regarding Tshwane's city manager. The program concludes with testimony from former police minister Bheki Cele concerning the delay of apartheid-era prosecutions.

EWN reporter Tobiso Goba provides an update on Brian Padayachi's appearance before the Magal Commission. The report covers Padayachi's defense against allegations of being improperly appointed to a senior position at the Investigating Directorate Against Corruption (IDAC) and his denial of involvement in leaking confidential information to Farouk Khan. Additionally, the broadcast explores claims regarding political interference in criminal charges against Crime Intelligence officials, including the revelation that an affidavit by MP Fadil Adams played a role in the investigation of Lieutenant General Dumsani Kumalo.

This episode previews a High Court application by President Cyril Ramaphosa in the Phala Phala matter, scheduled for a two-day hearing. The application seeks an interdict to halt the Section 89 impeachment inquiry proceedings until a separate court review, expected in September, can be heard. The discussion covers the legal positions of key respondents, including the Speaker of Parliament and the chairperson of the impeachment committee, as well as the opposition from the ATM party.

The Public Investment Corporation (PIC), South Africa's largest asset manager, has placed CEO Patrick Dlamini on precautionary suspension following whistleblower allegations of governance failures and conflicts of interest. The investigation centers on irregularities surrounding the corporation's handling of a dispute involving Lanseria airport and a transaction with an entity called Acapulco. The report explores allegations regarding potential conflicts of interest due to the CEO's previous professional ties to the transaction parties, as well as questions surrounding the authority to initiate forensic reviews of finalized arbitration awards.

This episode discusses a recent World Bank study highlighting the success of South Africa's Special Economic Zones (SEZ) program, which has generated R14.8 billion in revenue and created over 30,000 jobs. The discussion features an interview with Reverend Musa Zondi, the KZN Economic Development MEC, regarding the operational impact of SEZs like Dubai Tradeport and Richards Bay ITZ in KwaZulu-Natal. The conversation covers how these zones attract foreign direct investment through 'plug and play' platforms, low tariffs, and tax incentives, specifically noting a 10 billion rand investment from Toyota Okihara. The program also touches upon an upcoming international conference in Durban aimed at increasing regional participation from African nations and China. The episode concludes with brief segments covering unrelated topics, including social media reactions to a disrupted football match and personal reflections on the integrity of Andrea Johnson.

Guguletu Koma, Senior Manager of Operations at Joburg Water, discusses upcoming planned Rand Water maintenance scheduled from July 17th to July 19th. The maintenance aims to strengthen the bulk water supply system to improve long-term water security for Johannesburg. The discussion details specific impacts on the city's water supply, including a 50% reduction in supply via the Ekenhof system and a 70% reduction affecting areas such as Rosettenville, Hillbrow, and the eastern side of the city. While certain areas like the CBD may experience declines in pressure, the Deep South/Diepkloof area is expected to remain unaffected during the maintenance period.

The Democratic Alliance (DA) has announced plans to approach the High Court on an urgent basis to challenge recent council decisions in Tshwane. The legal action seeks to set aside the suspension of City Manager Johan Mettler and contest the reclassification of alleged misconduct involving CFO Gareth Mnisi as less serious. Salia Brink, the DA mayoral candidate for Tshwane, alleges that the Speaker rigged votes during a special council meeting by deliberately subtracting votes to achieve predetermined outcomes. The DA argues that the move against Mettler is politically motivated and aims to remove him during a critical period of the new financial year, potentially undermining municipal governance and accountability regarding irregular expenditure.

This episode covers the testimony of former police minister Bheki Cele before a judicial inquiry investigating whether political pressure prevented the prosecution of apartheid-era crimes referred by the Truth and Reconciliation Commission (TRC). The report details Cele's admission that his personal resentment toward apartheid-era security branch officers influenced his decision to delay prosecutions, specifically regarding the payment of legal fees for officers accused of crimes against humanity. The discussion explores the tension between the South African Police Service's obligation as a successor state to cover legal costs and the ethical implications of using public funds for those who committed atrocities. The coverage also previews upcoming testimonies from other former ministers, including Fikile Mbalula, Nathi Mthethwa, and Gatsha Mantashe.

A News24 investigation reveals that businessman Selby Mantata has secured over 1.6 billion rand in contracts from the Ekurhuleni municipality over the last decade. The report details how Mantata's companies, Selby Construction and RSMM Construction, have been awarded tenders for chemical toilets and water and sanitation infrastructure projects including sewage pipelines and pump stations. The investigation also explores historical links between Mantata and EFF leader Julius Malema, dating back to corruption charges in Limpopo involving On-Point Engineering. While the journalist clarifies there is no direct evidence linking Malema to current contracts or the murder of auditor Mpofu Mafole, the report highlights the suspicious timing of contract awards following the death of the official who was investigating supply chain irregularities.

An investigation into the villages of Mafarafara and Hattaung in Burgers Fort, Limpopo, reveals a community forced to construct a precarious makeshift bridge to access essential healthcare services. Separated by the raging Tubatze River, residents of Mafarafara lack a local clinic and must cross the unstable structure made of corrugated iron and wooden logs to reach the nearest medical facility. The report highlights the extreme physical risks posed by the flooding river and the controversial practice of individuals charging residents a fee to use the bridge. The investigation also examines the response from the local municipality, which has failed to confirm plans to dismantle the dangerous structure, instead opting to escalate the matter to the provincial government. The episode explores the intersection of infrastructure neglect, community desperation, and the opportunistic monetization of essential crossings.

This episode examines the geopolitical implications of Senator Lindsey Graham's sudden death from an aortic rupture. As a prominent Republican hawk and close ally of Donald Trump, Graham's absence creates a significant vacancy in the U.S. Senate that could impact voting majorities on critical foreign policy issues, particularly regarding Iran and military funding. The discussion explores how his passing affects U.S. stances on the Russia-Ukraine conflict, support for Israel during the Gaza war, and potential shifts in Washington's engagement with Africa and trade.

This report covers the first court appearance of Ndordana Tsuma in the Johannesburg Magistrates Court following his flight from the United Kingdom. Accused of killing his wife and two children in Bedfordshire before traveling via Dubai to South Africa, Tsuma faces separate legal matters involving an unlicensed firearm and a pending extradition request from the UK. The coverage details the complexities of the investigation, including discrepancies regarding his travel through Zimbabwe and the ongoing coordination between South African and British authorities.

A discussion covering recent highlights in international rugby and professional tennis. The conversation analyzes the Springboks' recent performance and their strategy of prioritizing system over consistent selection ahead of the series against New Zealand. The speakers also review the Wimbledon finals, evaluating the dominance of Jannik Sinner in the men's draw and the unexpected maiden title victory by Linda Noskovic in the women's competition.

This episode covers a range of critical news stories, beginning with the medical emergency of IDAC head Andrea Johnson during the Madlaga Commission and reports on a hazardous makeshift bridge in Limpopo. The program features an interview with Tony Forbes regarding the media narrative surrounding the inquest into Anele Tembe's death. Additionally, the episode investigates R1.6 billion in municipal contracts awarded to businessman Selby Mantata and explores the geopolitical implications of Senator Lindsey Graham's death. The episode concludes with reports on the court appearance of Ndordana Tsuma and a sports wrap covering recent Springbok rugby performances and the Wimbledon tennis finals.

The episode reports on the sudden absence of IDAC head Andrea Johnson from the Madlanga Commission due to a medical emergency. Johnson, who leads the Investigating Directorate Against Corruption, was scheduled to testify regarding allegations of interference in an assault case involving crime intelligence boss Faroz Khan. The report explores the tension between the commission and Johnson's legal team, as well as the broader implications of factional battles between IDAC and the SAPS.

This episode explores intense political friction in Tshwane, featuring a debate between Salirs Esbrink and Michael Bester regarding the suspension of the City Manager and allegations of political maneuvering. The discussion extends to the Madlanga Commission's investigation into leaked confidential information and updates on the Ekurhuleni corruption case. In broader news, the Minister in the Presidency discusses a new four-year cooperation framework between South Africa and the United Nations to implement Sustainable Development Goals. The episode concludes with an analysis of international football and tennis, alongside a series of 'good things' celebrating South African achievements and community generosity.

Brent Lindeke presents three uplifting stories from South Africa to conclude the week. The episode covers a University of the Western Cape student whose plea for 60 rand for potatoes resulted in a massive grocery donation from the public, the historic achievement of ballerina Candice DeSalette graduating from the Vaganova Ballet Academy despite physical injury, and the recognition of South African hospitality in the Travel and Leisure World's Best Awards. The segment highlights themes of community generosity, individual perseverance, and the global prestige of South African tourism.

This episode provides a comprehensive review of recent international football developments and tennis tournament progress. The discussion covers the dominance of France in recent matches, the emergence of new footballing icons like Kylian Mbappe and Erling Haaland, and the potential changing of the guard as legends like Messi and Ronaldo approach the end of their careers. The hosts also analyze upcoming fixtures including Spain versus Belgium and Norway versus England. Beyond football, the conversation shifts to the coaching transition within the South African national team following Hugo Broos's departure and the intense mental battles observed in the women's tennis draws at Wimbledon. The episode concludes with a look ahead to the men's tennis semifinals, highlighting the high-stakes matchup between Jannik Sinner and Novak Djokovic.

A political debate regarding the recent suspension of Tshwane City Manager Johan Mettler and the status of CFO Gareth Mnisi. The discussion features Salirs Brink of the Democratic Alliance (DA) and Michael Beaumont of Action SA, who clash over the legality of the council's recent vote and the transparency of the proceedings. The DA alleges a political witch hunt and procedural irregularities involving the subtraction of councillor votes, while Action SA maintains that the Mayor was legally obligated to present the allegations to the council. The episode explores the broader implications for the governing coalition between Action SA, the ANC, and the EFF ahead of upcoming local elections.

The Malanga Commission is investigating allegations that investigations into senior police officers may have been compromised by high-ranking officials. Testimony from retired Hawks Officer Corbus Rulofa suggests that Andrea Johnson, currently head of the Investigating Directorate Against Corruption, may have leaked confidential details of a 2018 complaint against Major General Feroz Khan. The proceedings also examine the role of former NPA head Shamila Batouhi, with allegations that she shared a criminal complaint regarding Johnson's alleged interference with the subject of the investigation herself.

The National Prosecuting Authority has undergone a significant shift in the Kuraleni Blue Lights corruption case, announcing it will no longer oppose bail for former municipal manager Imogen Moshazi and suspended HR head Linda Tlaseka. This decision follows the verification of residential addresses, addressing previous concerns regarding potential flight risks. The report details the court proceedings at the Jemison Magistrates Court, the defense's arguments regarding life threats, and the eventual release of all four accused individuals on bail.

Host Jane Dutton interviews Marupene Ramokgopa, the Minister in the Presidency responsible for planning, regarding a newly signed cooperation framework between South Africa and the United Nations. The agreement aims to establish the Sustainable Development Cooperation Framework for the period leading up to 2030. The discussion focuses on how the framework will domesticate Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) into South African government and societal plans. The Minister highlights the UN's role in providing capacity, mobilizing domestic and international resources, and fostering partnerships between government and the business sector to address issues such as skills development, employment, and resource utilization.

This episode examines the collapsing re-licensing system in South Africa, as reported by Gun Free South Africa. The discussion highlights a 74% plunge in firearm re-licensing applications since the 2021-2022 period, driven by legal uncertainties following a 2022 court ruling. This trend has resulted in a growing number of gun owners possessing firearms illegally, increasing the risk of weapons leaking into the criminal market. Consultant Claire Taylor discusses the urgent need to amend the Firearms Control Act to clarify compliance for owners with expired licenses and those holding old licenses under the Arms and Ammunition Act. The conversation also addresses the risks of theft and loss, the necessity of tracing illegal firearms to their source, and the lack of public trust in police-led firearm destruction processes following previous scandals.

An analysis of the recent NATO summit in Ankara, focusing on the controversial rhetoric and diplomatic blunders of U.S. President Donald Trump. Former U.S. diplomat Brooks Spector discusses the shifting dynamics of the North Atlantic Treaty Organization, noting a trend toward the Europeanization of NATO as nations like Sweden and Finland join the alliance and European leaders seek to de-Americanize defense strategies. The discussion also covers the geopolitical implications of the Iran-U.S. conflict, the impact of energy instability on global markets, and the potential for South Africa to leverage solar power and coal exports amidst shifting international relations. Finally, the episode examines the domestic political climate in the United States, highlighting the rise of both far-right and far-left movements ahead of the upcoming midterm elections.

Following five confirmed death cap poisonings in the Western Cape within two weeks, the health department has issued a warning against eating wild mushrooms. Mycologist and forager Dan, known as 'the mushroom man,' discusses the dangers of misidentification, the inaccuracy of mushroom identification apps, and the lethal nature of amatoxins which cannot be removed through cooking or freezing. The episode explores the rising trend of foraging driven by health consciousness and provides critical identification features for the death cap mushroom, including its olive-colored cap and bulbous stipe. The discussion also covers the deceptive progression of symptoms, where a period of apparent recovery masks the onset of fatal organ failure.

Parliament is hosting a cluster briefing of committee chairpersons to discuss critical oversight matters regarding municipal finance, public service administration, and the presidency. The briefing covers the National Treasury's decision to withhold funding from 69 municipalities due to financial mismanagement and the subsequent focus on consequence management. Additionally, discussions involve the challenges of conducting lifestyle audits within provincial governments and the newly established committee tasked with overseeing the presidency's implementation of government programs and budget spending.

This episode examines critical shifts in global and domestic politics, beginning with the collapse of South Africa's firearm re-licensing system and the geopolitical implications of the Iran conflict on energy and international relations. The discussion also covers the evolving US political climate and the shifting defense strategies of European nations in response to the Russian invasion of Ukraine. Additionally, the episode features updates on South African legal and municipal finance issues, a warning regarding the dangers of foraging for deadly death cap mushrooms, and a deep dive into Lebo Di Seco's memoir, which explores hidden family histories of activism and resistance during the apartheid era.

In this episode of Book of the Week, Mandy Wiener interviews acclaimed journalist and broadcaster Lebo Di Seco about her powerful new memoir, The House at 6001. The book explores the history of a four-room home in Orlando East, Soweto, which served as a pivotal meeting place for activists and revolutionaries during the apartheid era. Di Seco recounts personal family histories, including her parents' involvement in the resistance, her father's exile, and the profound impact of the 1976 Soweto Uprising on her family lineage. Through a journalistic lens, Di Seco delves into uncovered truths regarding her parents' covert activities and treason charges. The discussion touches upon the complexities of memory, the trauma of political upheaval, and the importance of documenting moments of joy and celebration as forms of resistance amidst systemic oppression.

An interview with South African Health Ombudsman Professor Tawole Mokwena regarding the findings of a joint investigation into the deaths of healthcare professionals at public health facilities in KwaZulu-Natal. The investigation addresses allegations of workplace bullying and forced labor following the deaths of several young doctors. Professor Mokwena details the investigation's conclusions, stating that the deaths were due to natural causes or suicide rather than workplace misconduct. The discussion covers the lack of employee wellness programs in hospitals and the necessity of implementing well-resourced mental health support systems for medical staff.

The Midday Report covers critical news regarding Johannesburg's infrastructure and financial management, specifically the impact of centralized municipal funding on the 'Pick It Up' waste management service and water leaks in Alexandra. The episode also explores legal and political developments, including the Madlanga Commission's in-camera testimony, the postponement of Brown Mukhoti's trial, and the National Treasury's decision to withhold municipal funds. Additionally, the report features an investigation into the deaths of healthcare professionals in KZN, which highlighted a lack of employee wellness programs, and the Legal Practice Council's application to strike former Public Protector Busisiwe Mkhwebane from the roll of advocates. International news includes US President Donald Trump's comments at the NATO summit regarding Iran.

An interview with Ignatius Briel, the Gauteng Director at the Legal Practice Council (LPC), regarding the council's application to have former Public Protector Busisiwe Mkhwebane struck from the roll of advocates. Briel discusses the grounds for the application, citing various court judgments related to investigations such as the South African Reserve Bank Lifeboat, the Dairy Project, and the CR102/CR17 investigation. The discussion covers allegations of irrational conduct, misunderstanding legal principles, and exceeding statutory powers, as well as the LPC's obligation to bring such matters before the court for a final decision on fitness to practice.

The Midday Report discusses the recent release of a report by Public Protector Advocate Koleka Kaleka regarding service delivery failures in Langa and Kaya Leacha. The investigation highlights critical issues including overflowing sewerage, poorly maintained housing, broken street lights, and inadequate security at municipal health facilities. The episode features an interview with ANC provincial spokesperson Sofiso Mtsweni, who critiques the Democratic Alliance's governance in the Western Cape and discusses the potential for legal action and reparations for affected residents.

An update on the legal proceedings involving self-proclaimed political fixer Bulelani Kwanda Mkhonto, whose court appearance resulted in a postponement to next month. The defense team requested additional time to consult on video footage, photos, and witness statements recently handed over by the state. The report also covers the defense's decision to lodge an appeal against the denial of bail, with attorneys alleging that the magistrate misapplied the law regarding the release of a suspect.

This episode examines the ongoing waste collection crisis in Johannesburg, focusing on the operational and financial struggles of the entity Pick It Up. The discussion explores how labor disputes and a centralized cash management system prevent the entity from accessing its 2.1 billion rand in reserves to maintain its aging fleet and pay private contractors. Additionally, the report covers National Treasury's decision to withhold over 13 billion rand in equity share transfers from 69 municipalities, including Johannesburg, as a measure to enforce fiscal discipline and financial management improvements.

This report covers the proceedings of the Madlanga Commission of Inquiry, focusing on the recent decision to allow a businessman, identified as Witness M, to testify in camera. The witness has requested closed-door testimony due to fears for his life following reports of surveillance at his home. His testimony is expected to involve details regarding drug busts investigated by the commission and may implicate high-profile individuals. The episode also outlines the commission's tight schedule as it approaches the August 31st deadline for its final report. Upcoming testimony includes central figures such as Senzo Mnuzi and Tam Kwanazi, alongside other expected witnesses like Mike van Veig and Suleiman Karim, as the commission concludes public hearings by the end of July.

This episode covers significant legal and political developments, including the Madlanga Commission's extension request and investigations into the relationship between Major General Feroz Khan and Julius Malema. The report also details the National Treasury's decision to withhold funds from 70 municipalities due to financial mismanagement and the potential impact on local service delivery. Additionally, the episode examines the Public Protector's findings on service delivery failures in Cape Town, a Constitutional Court ruling regarding the Refugees Act, and the ongoing political tension in Tshwane concerning the potential suspension of the City Manager.

This episode discusses the National Treasury's decision to withhold funds from 70 municipalities, including the City of Johannesburg, due to failures in addressing wasteful expenditure, unfunded budgets, and municipal debts. Municipal governance expert Mielani Holeni explains the implications of withholding the equitable share, noting the potential for municipalities to fail in meeting obligations to employees, suppliers, and utilities like Eskom. The discussion covers the breakdown of financial controls, the rise in unauthorized and irregular expenditure, and potential pathways for recovery through provincial support or external consulting to ensure compliance with the MFMA and the Constitution.