The Midday Report with Mandy Wiener

An interview with Maxine Besaid-Notes, the Chief Director of Traffic Management in the Western Cape, regarding a fatal bus accident on the N1 near Touws River. The incident involved a bus carrying 73 passengers that overturned in the early hours of the morning, resulting in 16 confirmed fatalities and numerous injuries. The discussion covers the driver's account of swerving to avoid a motor vehicle, the status of the injured holidaymakers traveling from Cape Town to the Eastern Cape, and the current state of the roadway.

This episode covers several developing news stories in South Africa, including updates on the Madlanga Commission regarding General Feroz Khan's health and the rejection of a plea deal for Kat Matlala. The program also examines law enforcement operations, a fatal bus accident in Limpopo, and the controversial cabinet reshuffle involving Dina Pule. Additionally, the episode discusses economic challenges, specifically the recent decline in South African job numbers and the structural changes needed to address unemployment. The coverage concludes with reports on a fuel tanker incident in Cape Town, post-protest looting in KwaZulu-Natal, and a critique of presidential appointment powers.

This episode provides an update on the aftermath of the June 30 protests in KwaZulu-Natal. Following a NatJoints press conference involving the police and the SANDF, the discussion focuses on the security situation in Durban and surrounding townships. The report details reports of large-scale looting in areas such as Hammersdale, Marion Ridge, and Clement Way, specifically noting the impact on supermarkets and foreign-owned shops following the withdrawal of police enforcement.

An interview with Jermaine Carlson, spokesperson for the City of Cape Town Fire and Rescue, regarding a fuel tanker accident on the N1 in Cape Town. The incident involved a truck carrying 40,000 litres of Jet K1 aviation fuel that overturned on the FW de Klerk Boulevard outbound slip road near the Black River Fongo interchange. The discussion details the emergency response, the decision to decant the fuel into another vehicle to prevent a catastrophic rupture, and the safety protocols used to mitigate ignition risks. The episode covers the technical challenges of the recovery operation and the potential consequences had the tank's integrity been compromised.

This episode examines the recent South African labour market report from Stats SA, which reveals that the country shed 120,000 jobs between March 2025 and March 2026. Featuring Dr. Azhar Jameen, Chief Economist at Econometrics, the discussion explores the impact of seasonal employment fluctuations in the agriculture, retail, and tourism sectors on the overall 1.1% decline in employment levels. The conversation further addresses the structural challenges facing the South African economy, including the rising number of job seekers, the complexities of minimum wage regulations, and the socio-economic drivers of unrest. Dr. Jameen outlines necessary interventions such as improving education, reducing over-regulation, enhancing infrastructure, and addressing spatial inequality to foster a more attractive environment for investment and long-term job creation.

This episode examines the recent South African cabinet reshuffle announced on June 30th, focusing on the controversial reappointment of Dina Pule as the Minister of Social Development. Political analyst Professor Nsikalello Breakfast joins the discussion to debate the implications of this decision, specifically regarding President Ramaphosa's commitment to anti-corruption efforts and the ANC's internal leadership dynamics. The conversation also covers the President's agreement to the DA's requests regarding ministerial changes and the potential impact of these political maneuvers on upcoming local government elections.

This news report covers a developing situation involving a fatal bus crash on the N1 near the Beitbridge Border Post in Musina. The incident involved a bus transporting Malawian nationals being repatriated from Pietermaritzburg, resulting in the death of the 33-year-old driver and injuries to 11 passengers. Mashudu Mabata, spokesperson for the Limako Department of Transport, provides details regarding the circumstances of the accident.

A report from News 24 journalist Karen Morne regarding the ongoing Madlanga Commission and the recent developments involving witness Feroz Khan. The discussion covers the unprecedented situation where Khan's legal team, amid rumors of a staged assassination attempt, invited the commission to verify his unconscious state in the hospital. The report also details the commission's progress in uncovering substantive evidence of wrongdoing against high-level police officers, including bank statements and WhatsApp communications, despite delays caused by medical emergencies and claims of anxiety from other witnesses.

This report covers the proceedings at the Pretoria Specialised Commercial Crimes Court regarding the sentencing of alleged underworld kingpin Wusimusi Kat Matlala. A magistrate has modified a previously agreed-upon plea and sentence agreement between the NPA and the defense, specifically altering the sentences for counts of corruption and money laundering. The report details the magistrate's scathing assessment of Matlala's cooperation and the potential legal consequences for the NPA if the agreement collapses.

Mandy Wiener reports on widespread protests and civil unrest across South Africa regarding illegal immigration, featuring reports of looting in Marion Ridge and violence in Johannesburg CBD, alongside peaceful demonstrations in Soweto and Durban. The episode also covers the humanitarian situation at the Beitbridge border and the presence of large gatherings in Alex. The coverage includes an interview with the Statistician General regarding the number of foreign-born individuals in the South African workforce and a discussion with a labor law expert on the legal consequences of employing undocumented workers. Additionally, Police Brigadier Atlende Mate provides updates on national security, labor inspection rights, and recent arrests related to harboring illegal foreign nationals.

In this interview, Statistician General Rasenga Malaleke of StatsSA discusses the official data regarding foreign-born populations and their role in the South African labor market. The discussion addresses common misconceptions regarding the number of international migrants and their impact on employment rates and specific industries such as construction, agriculture, and private households. Malaleke also clarifies the limitations of official statistics, noting that the agency tracks birth origin rather than legal documentation status, and emphasizes the importance of accurate data for national infrastructure planning.

Labour law expert Osborne Molotudi joins the program to discuss the legal implications and penalties associated with employing undocumented foreigners in South Africa. The discussion covers the provisions of the Immigration Act, the potential for significant fines ranging from R10,000 to R100,000, and the risks of criminal prosecution and imprisonment for employers. The conversation also explores the powers of labor inspectors from the Department of Employment and Labor, specifically their ability to conduct unannounced inspections and investigations without a warrant or prior complaint. Molotudi details the consequences for workers, including deportation and being declared an undesirable person, as well as the procedural steps taken by authorities during compliance checks.

An interview with Brigadier Atlende Mate, the police spokesperson, regarding the current security situation across South Africa. The discussion covers recent arrests related to looting in the Northern Cape and the harboring of illegal foreign nationals in the Free State. The Brigadier provides updates on the status of various marches, the legality of unapproved gatherings, and the police strategy regarding protesters carrying weapons, including traditional attire and pangas.

This news report covers significant humanitarian and civil unrest in the northern part of the country and the suburb of Alex. In Musina and at the Beitbridge border post, approximately 8,000 Malawian nationals have been queuing for over 16 hours seeking assistance from Home Affairs to verify documents for their return home. The report highlights the dire conditions of these individuals, who have faced extreme heat and lack of access to food, water, and sanitation following recent clashes with police in Durban. The broadcast also touches upon reports of unplanned protests and gatherings occurring in Alex, as observed on social media.

This news report provides a nationwide overview of ongoing protests and civil unrest across South Africa. In KwaZulu-Natal, reports emerge from Marion Ridge regarding the targeted looting of foreign-owned spaza shops, while large-scale demonstrations involving Zulu regiments, Amabuto, are observed in Durban and Soweto. The report details instances of violence in Johannesburg's CBD, where protesters and residents of apartment blocks engaged in rock-throwing confrontations. In Cape Town, the focus shifts to the humanitarian situation in Epping, where thousands of Zimbabwean nationals are waiting for travel documents to facilitate repatriation. The broadcast also covers the presence of traditional weapons during marches in Durban and the tension between maintaining cultural identity and police mandates regarding public safety. The coverage highlights a broader landscape of social unrest, migration issues, and the varying levels of police intervention across different provinces.

This episode covers a range of significant news stories, including the investigation into the alleged shooting of crime intelligence boss Feroz Khan and the resulting public speculation regarding the incident's authenticity. The program also examines high volumes of voluntary repatriations at South African borders and heavy police deployment in KwaZulu-Natal ahead of planned marches. Additionally, the episode features political insights from ANC Chief Whip Mdumiseni Ntuli regarding the EFF's motion of no confidence in the Speaker, alongside reports on Brown Mahoti's denied bail application and rising property rates in Cape Town. The episode concludes with a sports roundup covering international soccer, the Proteas in the Women's World Cup, and upcoming tennis at Wimbledon.

EWN sports reporter Lennox Wasara joins the show to provide a comprehensive weekend sports roundup. The discussion covers the recent performance of the Bafana Bafana squad and their exit from the tournament, as well as the Proteas' advancement to the Women's World Cup semi-finals following Australia's victory over India. The episode also touches upon Ben Stokes' retirement from international cricket, the Springboks' squad announcement for the upcoming clash against England, and the commencement of Wimbledon, featuring highlights such as new video assistance technology and key players like Novak Djokovic and Serena Williams.

An interview with ANC Chief Whip Mdumiseni Thule regarding the proposed motion of no confidence in Speaker Thoko Didiza. Thule discusses the political motivations behind the EFF's motion, characterizing it as a strategic attempt to disorganize the ANC and the Government of National Unity (GNU). The discussion covers the ANC's perspective on parliamentary authority, the separation of powers, and the potential impact of opposition tactics on the stability of the current administration.

EWN reporter Mungesi Koko reports from the Johannesburg Magistrate Court regarding the denial of a second bail application for Brown Maghoti. The self-proclaimed political fixer, facing charges of perjury, defeating the ends of justice, and unlawful possession of a firearm, failed to present new evidence sufficient to meet the threshold for release. The incident stems from a 2025 alleged attempt on his life in Forest Town, which has since been dismissed. Maghoti remains remanded in custody as the court awaits a pre-trial hearing scheduled for next month. The report notes Maghoti's stoic demeanor in court and the lack of immediate consultation with his legal team following the court's decision.

This episode explores the growing tension surrounding property rates and tariffs in Cape Town. Featuring Bas Zaidberg, chairman of the City of Cape Town Collective Ratepayers Association, the discussion covers the implications of the city's latest budget and the new valuation roll, which has led to substantial increases in property values and subsequent rates bills. The conversation addresses the lack of engagement between the city and ratepayers, the impact of the DA-led council's approval process, and the growing affordability crisis facing residents as budget increases outpace the growth of rate-paying properties.

This news report covers the shooting of Feroz Khan, a suspended crime intelligence official, near his home in Houghton. The incident occurred shortly before Khan was scheduled to testify at the Midlanger Commission of Inquiry regarding corruption allegations. The report details the scene of the crime, the condition of the victim, and the reactions from his family and legal team. The broadcast also explores potential motives, including speculation regarding whether the shooting was an attempt to evade testimony or part of a broader pattern of violence targeting witnesses in organized crime investigations.

The midday report discusses the border situation following the June 30th deadline for illegal immigrants to leave the country. The program features an interview with Meme Mechotzi, Deputy Assistant Commissioner at the Border Management Authority, regarding the voluntary repatriation process and the increased volumes of foreign nationals, including 4,000 Malawians, passing through the Beitbridge Port of Entry. The discussion covers the coordination between embassies, the use of technology such as drones for surveillance, and the involvement of law enforcement and defense forces to prevent illegal re-entry. The episode also touches upon the broader atmosphere of uncertainty and the potential for planned marches and protests following the deadline.

This report covers the heightened security measures and political tensions in KwaZulu-Natal ahead of planned marches. Correspondent Nkrantla Mabaso details the significant deployment of police forces, including undercover units and detectives moving into uniform to increase visibility. The briefing highlights the risk of political violence and identifies specific hotspots in the province. Additionally, the report covers the Democratic Alliance's stance on the impending protests, with provincial leader Temi Songhe expressing concerns regarding the divisive nature of anti-immigrant demonstrations.

Brent Lindeke presents a collection of uplifting stories for the Friday wrap-up on 702 and Cape Talk. The episode features the story of security officer Hector Gumanazi, who protected a vehicle left open by musician PJ Powers, and celebrates Sarah Barrett's achievement as the Safari Guide of the Year. Additionally, the episode covers the heartwarming rescue of Kobe, a puppy nursed back to health by model Mark Buckner, which has inspired a surge in animal rescue interest.

Tolakele Mganga hosts SportsRap, discussing recent successes in South African sports. The episode covers Bafana Bafana's progress in the FIFA World Cup, the potential five million rand bonus for a victory, and the tactical outlook for upcoming matches against South Korea and Canada. The conversation also shifts to the T20 World Cup, analyzing the Proteas' standing and the necessity of an Australian victory over India to advance. Additionally, the hosts touch upon tennis, discussing Serena Williams' form and the competitive landscape at Wimbledon.

An interview with Homoso Ramraboleng, Chairperson of the Portfolio Committee on Correctional Services, regarding legislative efforts to manage foreign nationals in South African prisons. The discussion focuses on the need to amend the Correctional Service Act of 1998 to allow for the deportation of foreign offenders to their countries of origin to serve the remainder of their sentences. This initiative aims to address prison overcrowding and reduce the significant annual expenditure associated with incarcerated foreign nationals. The conversation highlights the existing memorandum of agreement with Botswana as a model for inmate exchange programs and emphasizes the necessity of inter-departmental collaboration between Correctional Services, Home Affairs, and International Relations. The episode also touches upon the current legislative delays in the amendment process and concludes with news regarding a motion of no confidence against the Speaker of the National Assembly.

A report on the ongoing legal proceedings in the Pretoria Magistrates Court regarding the Medicare 24 deal. The state's case against several senior police officers, including the National Police Commissioner, has been significantly bolstered by a recent deal and affidavit from Kat Matlala. The court appearance focused on technical matters regarding the disclosure of the docket and the potential for additional charges against current and future accused individuals.

An interview with Kaiser Ghaniako, spokesperson for the National Prosecuting Authority (NPA), regarding a significant plea deal involving Kat Matlala. The discussion explores the details of the proposed 15-year sentence, where seven years would be suspended in exchange for Matlala serving as a state witness to provide evidence against other accused individuals. The conversation also covers the legal distinction between a Section 105A plea deal and indemnity from prosecution. The episode further addresses breaking news regarding the freezing of a six million rand property in a corruption case involving Judge Portia Pahlane. Ghaniako details the investigation by the Hawks into alleged bribery and the efforts of the asset forfeiture unit to recover stolen funds and investigate the movement of money linked to the influence of judicial proceedings.

An update from the Mudlanga Commission of Inquiry regarding the second day of testimony from alleged drug trafficker Tumelungu. The report details a delay in proceedings as the witness seeks to provide supplementary evidence to his previous statements. The investigation involves allegations of contaminated evidence during a 2021 cocaine bust involving Houteng Traffic Police and questions surrounding the presence of 60,000 Rand in cash found in the witness's vehicle.

This episode covers significant legal and political developments in South Africa, beginning with Kat Matlala's plea deal in a 228 million rand corruption case and updates from the Madlanga Commission regarding drug bust testimony and witness delays. The program also discusses parliamentary updates on correctional services and immigration, alongside a celebration of Bafana Bafana's recent football victory. Additionally, the episode features an in-depth discussion with Tara Roos regarding her book, 'Where To From Here?'. The conversation analyzes the 2024 election data, the rise of populism linked to government failure, and the necessity of constitutional reform to navigate the complexities of the new era of coalition politics.

A discussion with sportscaster Karabo Pasha regarding Bafana Bafana's historic victory and the intense celebrations in Soweto. The episode explores the team's recent performance, the impact of recent criticism on player motivation, and the technical aspects of their recent matches against Mexico. The conversation also covers the team's rise in the FIFA world rankings from 60th to 54th and the upcoming challenge against Canada in the round of 32.

In this episode of the Midday Report, political journalist and analyst Tara Roos discusses her new book, Where To From Here? Populism and Coalition Politics in South Africa. The conversation explores the shifting political landscape following the 2024 national elections, examining the rise of populist movements and the complexities of governing through coalitions. Roos provides a data-driven analysis of voter allegiances, the impact of economic stagnation on political trends, and the necessity of constitutional reform for stable coalition frameworks. The discussion also addresses the future of South African democracy, specifically regarding the upcoming local government elections. Roos offers a perspective on how power will be negotiated nationally and issues a direct call to action for young South Africans regarding their responsibility to participate in the democratic process through informed voting.

The episode covers the court proceedings involving Kat Matlala, an underworld figure who has entered a plea and sentencing agreement regarding a 228 million rand SAPS tender corruption case. Matlala, linked to the company Medicare 24, has pleaded guilty to seven charges including fraud, money laundering, and corruption. The state is proposing a sentence of 15 years, with seven years suspended, as part of a deal that involves Matlala cooperating with investigators. The discussion explores the implications of this plea deal, specifically the potential for further arrests of high-ranking South African Police Service officers implicated by Matlala's cooperation. The report weighs the controversy of a potentially lenient sentence against the strategic value of using insiders to dismantle corrupt criminal structures within the police service.

The Madlanga Commission of Inquiry faces another postponement as businessman Suleiman Karim is unable to testify due to ongoing illness. This marks the third delay for Karim, leading Chief Evidence Leader Matthew Chaskolson to suggest potential prosecution for hindering proceedings if Karim fails to appear by July 15th. The commission has shifted its focus to the 2021 Johannesburg cocaine bust, examining the testimony of Tumelungu regarding the contamination of a crime scene involving 700 kilograms of cocaine and the role of police informants.

EWN reporter Babalo Ndenze reports on a briefing by the Chairpersons of Parliament's Peace and Security Cluster Oversight Committees. The briefing, held under the theme Deepening the Values of Peace, Justice, Safety and Security, covers critical updates regarding correctional services, immigration, and the IEC. Key topics include the transition of the Mangaung Correctional Facility from a public-private partnership with G4S back to full Department of Correctional Services control on July 1st, and the legislative challenges regarding the deportation of foreign nationals currently held in prisons. Additionally, the briefing addresses voter registration progress and concerns regarding potential violence surrounding the June 30th deadline.

The Midday Report covers several developing news stories, including the Madlanga Commission's investigation into suspended EMPD chief Julius Mkwanazi and debates regarding the impeachment committee's terms of reference. The report also details legal updates in the Medicare 24-related trial and the relationship between private security and law enforcement. Additionally, the episode discusses the preparedness of the private security industry and police for upcoming protests, alongside concerns from SALGA regarding rising political violence ahead of the 2026 local government elections.

Motale Tale Modiba, spokesperson for the South African Local Government Association (SALGA), discusses the rising concerns regarding political violence ahead of the 2026 elections. Following reports of councillors being killed during the voter registration weekend, the discussion explores the responsibilities of law enforcement, the IEC, and political parties in maintaining a safe environment for democratic contestation. The conversation highlights the impact of violence on the quality of leadership, suggesting that a violent political system prevents service-oriented leaders from emerging. Modiba calls for urgent action from the security cluster and urges political parties to examine their internal processes to ensure they do not foster an environment conducive to violence.

An interview with former DA leader Tony Leon regarding the state of law enforcement in South Africa ahead of planned marches on June 30th. The discussion focuses on the alleged hollowing out of the South African state, citing leadership dysfunction within the police force, including the suspension of the national commissioner and the presence of an acting minister. Leon analyzes the government's proactive engagement with the private security industry and the Zulu kingdom as a response to potential instability, drawing parallels to the unrest of July 2021.

An interview with Val Bartman, CEO of Fidelity Services Group, regarding recent discussions between the private security industry (CSIRA) and acting police minister Feroz Kachalia. The discussion focuses on the development of a memorandum of understanding aimed at enhancing cooperation between private security and the South African Police Service (SAPS) ahead of June 30th. Key topics include the importance of intelligence sharing, resource allocation, and maintaining legal boundaries to avoid the vigilante concerns seen during the 2021 July unrest. The conversation also addresses industry regulation, the necessity of compliance with legal standards, and the shared goal of supporting law enforcement during periods of potential civil unrest and criminal activity.

This episode discusses the recent legal development regarding the separation of Pusimuzi Katmatlala from the larger Medicrim 24 trial. The National Prosecuting Authority (NPA) spokesperson, Kaiser Ghani, explains the decision to move the Katmatlala matter to the Special Commercial Crimes Court to facilitate potential negotiations with a magistrate. The discussion explores the implications of this separation, specifically the possibility of a plea agreement such as a Section 105A or 204A, which could involve Katmatlala providing evidence against co-accused individuals, including police officers, in exchange for a reduced or suspended sentence.

This episode covers the ongoing Madlanga Commission proceedings involving suspended EMPD chief Julius Mkwanazi. The report details Mkwanazi's testimony regarding allegations made by his ex-girlfriend, Witness K, and investigations into the use of fraudulent police clearance certificates for private security personnel involved in a specialized drug unit. The broadcast also features listener commentary regarding the role of private security in South African policing and the broader implications of private firms performing functions traditionally reserved for the state.

EWN Parliamentary Reporter Lindsay Dentlinger provides an update on the Palapala Impeachment Committee meeting in Parliament. The discussion focuses on the contentious 40-page terms of reference, specifically regarding whether the president must appear personally before the committee or if legal proxies are permitted. The report highlights ongoing debates involving the MK Party and EFF regarding evidence leaders, forensic investigators, and the potential for legal challenges in the Western Cape High Court.

This episode covers several developing news stories, including a legal victory for the family of former Zambian President Edgar Lungu and a legal dispute between crime intelligence and IDAC regarding attempted arrests. It also features testimony from 'Witness K' at the Madlanga Commission, where an ex-girlfriend of Julius Mkwanazi alleges involvement in a theft of precious stones. Additional reports include a debate over whether a police official's comments regarding 'blood being spilled' constitute a direct threat, a fraud case linked to a murder investigation, and a legal challenge by Afri Forum against Johannesburg's water rate increase. The episode also features an interview with the LPG Association of South Africa regarding the safety risks of using unauthorized dealers for refilling gas cylinders.

This episode features an interview with Police Spokesperson Brigadier Atlende Mate regarding the South African police's preparations for the June 30th shutdown. The discussion focuses on the allocation of 600 million rand intended for logistical arrangements, resource deployment, and the prevention of economic losses, infrastructure damage, and violence during the planned protests. The briefing covers the coordination between the Ministry of Police and the Ministry of Defence, as well as the operational readiness of provincial commissioners and the engagement with provincial governments to ensure national safety and security.