The Midday Report with Mandy Wiener

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.

This episode examines the political tension in Tshwane regarding the potential removal of City Manager Johan Mettler. Following a 45-page complaint submitted by the EFF and ANC, Mettler has been tasked with responding to thirteen allegations of misconduct, ranging from failure to implement consequence management to issues regarding irregular appointments and wasteful expenditure. The report explores the upcoming council vote and the political implications for the current coalition, specifically focusing on how Action SA's decision may impact the relationship between the ANC, EFF, and Action SA ahead of upcoming elections.

This episode covers a legal dispute regarding the national dialogue steering committee. Nine members, representing the immigration sector, have approached the court to seek an order confirming their status after alleging they were ejected from the committee by Menco. The applicants are seeking to compel the president to provide confirmatory appointment letters and to maintain the status quo of their participation. The report details recent developments in court, including the presentation of a letter from the presidency that reportedly preserves the applicants' status in the committee. The legal proceedings are currently being deliberated by the parties involved, with a decision expected following a period of consultation.

This episode covers significant developments regarding the Madlanga Commission of Inquiry, focusing on the potential extension of its deadline beyond August 31, 2021. The report details discussions between the commission's spokesperson, Jeremy Michaels, and the presidency regarding the pressure of processing witnesses and testimony. The broadcast also examines emerging evidence from the devices of Major General Feroz Khan, specifically investigating the alleged role of businessman Mo Syed as a middleman between Khan and EFF leader Julius Malema. The discussion includes legal arguments from chief evidence leader Advocate Matthew Chaskalson regarding the nature of communications and the potential for Malema to be called to testify.

A third suspect, former EMPD officer Kersha Lee Stalls, has appeared in the Johannesburg Magistrates Court in connection with the alleged theft of precious stones valued at approximately 15 million rand from a Killarney residence in 2023. The case involves allegations of robbery with aggravating circumstances and fraud, with links to the Midlange Commission and the involvement of JMPD and EMPD officers. The report covers the suspect's surrender at the Edenvale police station and the upcoming bail applications for all three accused.

This episode explores the findings of the Madlanga Commission, focusing on police corruption, the misuse of crime intelligence to target journalists, and the manipulation of SAPS tenders. The discussion also examines the broader impact of Lieutenant General Mkwanazi's press conference on police accountability and the criminal justice system. Additional reports cover a gemstone theft involving police officers, financial audit failures in Gauteng municipalities, and legal challenges regarding the President's national dialogue steering committee. The episode concludes with updates on IEC digital campaign regulations and international sports news.

Sports Rap discusses recent major developments across international football, rugby, and cricket. The episode covers controversial officiating in the World Cup involving the US, the impressive performance of Norway, and Morocco's historic quarterfinal advancement. The discussion also touches on the Springboks' victory over England despite injury disruptions, the All Blacks' narrow win against France, and Australia's dominant performance to secure the Cricket World Cup title.

An interview with IEC Commissioner Dr. Janet Love regarding the Electoral Commission's response to the evolving landscape of local government elections. The discussion focuses on the rise of digitally focused political campaigns and the IEC's development of a draft code for executing digital campaigns to combat threats like fake news and AI-generated content. The conversation explores the collective responsibility of political parties to ensure information credibility and the specific requirements for labeling synthetic or AI-generated content. The IEC's strategy includes monitoring political adverts and establishing protocols for reporting misinformation to online platforms.

An interview with Dr. Gordon-Leslie Rolls regarding an urgent application before the Gauteng High Court concerning the legitimacy of the President's flagship national dialogue. The discussion focuses on allegations that nominated steering committee representatives have been sidelined due to the lack of formal appointment letters from the President. Dr. Rolls argues that the removal of nominees from communication platforms and the steering committee constitutes an illegal process, as the presidential letters serve merely as an endorsement of sector-led nominations.

The Gauteng government has expressed significant concern regarding the poor financial controls within the province's municipalities, following a consolidated audit report showing that only two municipalities, Midvaal and West Rand, achieved clean audits. The discussion explores the drivers behind irregular expenditure, specifically focusing on procurement violations and the bypassing of competitive bidding processes. Local governance expert Tabiso Ndebele analyzes the distinction between irregular and wasteful expenditure and outlines the necessity of strong leadership, internal supply chain controls, and infrastructure maintenance to resolve these systemic failures.

This report covers recent developments at the Madlanga Commission, focusing on evidence presented regarding Faraz Khan. The testimony examines WhatsApp communications that suggest the misuse of crime intelligence resources to target journalists, specifically referencing a break-in at the home of Daily Maverick journalist Marion Tam following her investigative reporting on COVID-19 PPE corruption. Additionally, the proceedings detail allegations of tender manipulation involving a 90 million rand SAPS automotive parts contract, where confidential information was allegedly shared to benefit businessman Ishmael Valli.

An analysis of the aftermath of Lieutenant General Nklantla Mkwanazi's press conference one year later, focusing on the impact of the Midlanga Commission on the South African police force. The discussion explores the widespread infiltration of criminal elements within the police service, noting the suspension and resignation of high-ranking officials including the national police commissioner, the head of organized crime, and the head of the Hawks in KwaZulu-Natal. Investigative journalist Jeff Wicks discusses the commission's rapid progress, the challenges of the criminal justice system in securing convictions, and the role of the media in exposing police capture and organized crime.

This news report covers the court appearance of officers allegedly involved in the Kilani Precious Stones theft case. The report details allegations from the Madlaga Commission where witnesses claimed officers pretended to conduct a raid to rob a property, resulting in the theft of gemstones valued at 14.9 million rand. The suspects are facing charges including robbery with aggravating circumstances and fraud, with the state opposing bail during their first appearance at the Johannesburg Magistrates Court.

The Midday Report covers major South African news, including the Madlanga Commission's investigation into alleged tender irregularities involving crime intelligence boss Faroz Khan and diplomatic concerns regarding former President Jacob Zuma's visit to the Gupta family in India. The report also discusses Cabinet decisions regarding illegal migration, labor inspections, and the deployment of the SANDF to various provinces. Additionally, the episode explores the implementation of new SARS traveler declaration rules, the impact of increased taxi fares in Cape Town, and the debate over selecting a new Bafana Bafana coach. The program concludes with reflections on international football and cricket, rugby ticket pricing, and a roundup of positive viral news stories from across the country.

This episode features a discussion on the current state of South African sports, focusing on the coaching direction for Bafana Bafana and the complexities of the national football structure. The conversation explores the debate between appointing a foreign coach versus a local expert who understands the relationship between SAFA and the PSL. The discussion also covers recent performances in international football, including the progress and setbacks of African teams in global tournaments, and the recent results of the Proteas women's cricket team. Additionally, the segment addresses the economic challenges facing sports fans, specifically regarding the fluctuating ticket prices for upcoming rugby matches at Ellis Park.

Brent Lindeke presents a weekly roundup of uplifting news stories from South Africa. The episode covers the heartwarming viral story of 62-year-old Oum Shorty's first visit to Spur, highlighting community support for his well-being. It also celebrates the international success of Nelson Mandela University students Ruan Smith and Riddy Schultz, who won a prestigious global architecture prize for a sustainable riverfront design in Serbia. Finally, the episode features an Eastern Cape police officer being recognized for her exemplary professionalism and respectful service to the community.

The South African Revenue Service (SARS) has introduced a new online traveler declaration system for individuals entering or leaving the country. This initiative aims to modernize customs processes by allowing travelers to declare goods and currency digitally before reaching the border. The episode features an interview with SARS spokesperson Sipiti Sibeko, who discusses the transition from a voluntary pilot program to a more mandatory digital process designed to simplify customs and support smart border modernization. The discussion covers the practical steps for using the online portal at www.sers.gov.za, the availability of QR codes and mobile apps for assistance at points of exit, and the legal necessity of these declarations to address South Africa's gray-listing status. The episode also addresses public concerns regarding the functionality of the website and the potential challenges for travelers less familiar with digital tools.

This episode discusses the recent increase in MyCiTi dial-a-ride fares in Cape Town, which the city attributes to rising fuel and operating costs. Anthony Galino, treasurer at the Western Cape Network on Disability, joins the discussion to outline the significant impact these hikes have on the mobility and financial stability of commuters with disabilities. The conversation covers the difficult choices faced by vulnerable populations regarding essential medical trips and the ongoing dialogue between advocacy groups and transport authorities.

EWN reporter Babalo Andense provides a briefing on the recent post-Cabinet meeting and the deployment of the South African National Defence Force (SANDF). The discussion covers the government's response to nationwide protests against illegal migration, the work of the interministerlam task team led by Minister Mamoloko Kubeto, and the continuation of labor inspections regarding the employment of undocumented foreign nationals. Additionally, the report details the President's notification to the National Assembly regarding the deployment of 3,405 SANDF members to various provinces at a cost of 54 million Rand, as part of ongoing security efforts including Operation Prosper.