The Midday Report with Mandy Wiener

Brent Lindeke presents three uplifting stories to conclude the week. The episode covers Dylan Yordan's journey from homelessness and heroin addiction to sobriety through the use of a MyChange voucher, alongside the launch of digital vouchers in Cape Town. It also details the medical recovery of Reino Keiser at NetCare Green Acres Hospital following advanced ECMO treatment for lung failure. Finally, the segment highlights 14-year-old Aidan Scott's initiative using 3D-printed toys to fund a sustainable food garden for a soup kitchen in the Eastern Cape.

This episode covers significant updates from the Madlanga Commission, including the subpoena of Andrea Johnson and investigations into a major cocaine theft. The discussion extends to South African procurement reforms and the risks of policy complexity, alongside reports on food safety failures in Spaza shops due to inspector shortages and the ongoing school desk crisis affecting millions of students. The program also explores sporting storylines, from World Cup predictions involving Lionel Messi to the future of the Springboks' junior rugby teams and Formula 1 updates. The episode concludes with uplifting stories regarding community impact and medical triumphs, followed by listener interactions.

Sports Wrap with Tolakele Nganga covers the upcoming major sporting finals and recent developments across football, rugby, Formula 1, and MMA. The discussion focuses on the highly anticipated World Cup final between Argentina and Spain, weighing the collective team strength of Spain against the individual brilliance of Lionel Messi. The episode also examines the junior Bok's quest for history in their World Cup final against France and the Springboks' strategic preparation for a post-veteran era against Wales. Additionally, the segment touches on technical penalties in Formula 1 ahead of the Belgian Grand Prix and highlights Drikus Du Plessis's upcoming fight in the US. The episode concludes with a lighthearted debate regarding tournament predictions between the hosts.

This episode explores the critical issue of classroom infrastructure in South Africa, specifically focusing on the lack of school desks for millions of learners. Featuring Talita Woodrum from MyDesk Global, the discussion highlights how an estimated 2.4 million South African children attend school without access to a desk or chair, often sitting on cold or muddy floors. This fundamental barrier impacts literacy, handwriting, and overall academic performance. The conversation addresses the economic implications of this deficit, noting that while much focus is placed on high-level digital skills and AI, the lack of basic learning tools prevents children from ever reaching those advanced competencies. The episode details the Department of Basic Education's call for public-private partnerships to address the funding gap and MyDesk Global's mission to reach one million children by 2030.

The Public Protector has released findings from a two-year investigation into government failures regarding food safety standards at informal spaza shops. The report highlights systematic failures in Gauteng provinces, specifically noting severe staffing shortages of environmental health practitioners in the City of Ekurhuleni, Tshwane, and Johannesburg. These shortages leave municipalities unable to adequately monitor food handling facilities, leaving shops susceptible to ongoing food poisoning risks. The investigation also examines a specific fatal incident in Naledi, Soweto, where six children died in October 2024. The Public Protector found that the City of Johannesburg's response was delayed, with investigators arriving more than 24 hours after the deaths, by which time evidence had been compromised. Additionally, the report addresses regulatory issues involving shops registered under South African citizens but operated by unlicensed foreign nationals.

This episode covers ongoing developments from the Midlanga Commission, focusing on the status of Advocate Andrea Johnson, head of the Independent Directorate Against Corruption (IDAC). Following a period of illness, updates indicate her return to the commission is expected soon, amid scrutiny regarding investigations into top crime intelligence officers. The report also details testimony concerning a 2021 cocaine bust in Durban, where 541 kilograms of drugs were moved to a Hawks storage facility before being stolen. Testimony from Warrant Officer Mongeleni Pangasi highlights allegations of following orders from high-ranking officials and raises questions regarding the handling of safe keys by General Sinona. Additionally, the broadcast touches on legal proceedings involving Suleiman Karim, including anticipated CCTV footage and potential postponement applications within the commission's schedule.

This episode features an interview with Anne Bernstein, Executive Director at the Centre for Development and Enterprise, regarding proposed procurement reforms in South Africa. The discussion explores the implications of new draft public procurement regulations, weighing potential benefits like increased transparency and a new procurement dashboard against significant risks associated with preferential procurement aspects. Bernstein highlights concerns that overly complex regulations could overwhelm weak institutions, potentially encouraging corruption and fronting rather than preventing it. The conversation emphasizes the necessity of achieving value for money in state spending—which exceeds 500 billion rand annually—and argues that simplicity in procurement rules is essential to ensure the effective delivery of goods and services like medicines and textbooks.

Three Lesotho nationals accused of 13 counts of murder and 14 counts of attempted murder following an incident at the Jumpers informal settlement returned to the Joburg Magistrate Court. The defendants' legal counsel announced that they are abandoning their bail application, citing a hostile environment and tensions between residents and the families of the accused.

Mandy Wiener hosts the Midday Report, covering updates on the Madlanga Commission regarding IDAC investigator Brian Padiachi and the suspicious medical absences of Suleiman Karim. The segment also features reports on bail being granted in a 14 million rand precious stones theft case and the withdrawal of charges against a businessman. The report continues with listener reactions to the 'Woolies bag' scandal, legal updates regarding the President's application in the Palapala matter, and the dire living conditions of refugees in Durban. The episode concludes with an interview with author and comedian Prev Reddy about his memoir, 'Qualified Disappointment,' exploring themes of identity and reclaiming one's narrative.

In this episode of the Midday Report, the hosts interview Prev Reddy, a comedian, content creator, and actor known online as Auntie Shamilla. The conversation focuses on his new memoir, Qualified Disappointment, which explores his personal journey growing up queer and brown within a conservative South African Indian household. Reddy discusses the transition from social media stardom to long-form storytelling, the emotional challenges of canceling a major homecoming tour, and the process of using literature to reclaim his narrative and address long-standing family silences.

An interview with EFF Treasurer General Mpile Maotwe regarding the President's court application and interdict in the Phalaela matter. Maotwe critiques the merits of the interdict, arguing that the President has failed to demonstrate irreparable harm or justify the timing of the application. The discussion covers the timeline of the impeachment committee process, the appointment of evidence leaders, and the legal requirements for an interdict in the context of potential reputational damage.

Activist Yeshlin Governor from Siyafana Sonke discusses the dire living conditions of approximately 450 refugees currently camping on the pavement outside the Home Affairs Refugee Office on Che Guevara Road in Durban. The group, which includes women, children, and elderly individuals with chronic illnesses, has been displaced due to attacks and intimidation in their home communities. Governor highlights a significant lack of urgency from all three levels of government—local, provincial, and national. Despite civil society presenting relocation options and temporary emergency accommodation proposals to the Inter-Ministerial Committee on Migration, officials have failed to provide a response or take action to address the humanitarian crisis.

Eyewitness News reporter Dimakatsu Leshoro provides an update from court regarding the legal proceedings involving a 14 million rand precious stones theft linked to the Madlanga Commission. The report covers significant developments including the withdrawal of charges against businessman Etienne van der Waals, who is suspected of potentially turning state witness, and the granting of bail for the remaining accused individuals. The coverage details the defense's version of events, where the accused claim they were acting under the instructions of a superior, Julius Mkwanazi, to retrieve stones from a residence in Kilimani. The report also touches upon the professional status of those involved, including an EMPD official and the resignation of Keisha Lee Stoltz.

This episode covers recent developments in the Madlanga Commission, focusing on the investigation into the unlawful appointment of Brigadier Dineo Mokoele and the ongoing legal drama surrounding Suleiman Karim. The report details the testimony of Colonel Brian Padayachi from the Investigative Directorate Against Corruption (IDAC) regarding allegations of improper gratification within the SAPS crime intelligence technical support division. The proceedings also highlight significant administrative delays caused by missing documents and the commission's investigation into whether Suleiman Karim is using medical excuses to avoid testifying. The report examines the tension between IDAC and the SAPS, as well as the subpoenaing of medical records and CCTV footage to verify Karim's recent movements in Cape Town.

Reporting from the Western Cape High Court, this episode covers the recent legal developments regarding the President's application to halt the Palapala impeachment process. The court has reserved judgment following intense arguments concerning the sufficiency of evidence presented by an independent panel and the potential for malicious proceedings against the President. The report details the debate between legal counsel regarding whether the evidence constitutes a prima facie case or merely a collection of hearsay and media reports. Additionally, the coverage explores the tension between the court application and the ongoing work of the impeachment committee, including statements from chairperson Makushule Gana regarding the continuity of parliamentary proceedings.

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.