The Midday Report with Mandy Wiener

This episode covers several significant news stories, including the controversy surrounding a 3 million Rand pledge for national hockey teams and the impact of major donations to South African women's hockey. It also reports on legal developments involving Andrea Johnson's testimony at the Midlunge Commission regarding crime intelligence investigations, the corruption trial of Nosiwe Viwe Mapisa-Nkululelu concerning defense tender bribery, and a judicial tribunal investigating a Free State judge's medical fitness. Additionally, the episode discusses the reinstatement of the Gauteng South Director of Public Prosecutions following an inquiry. The program concludes with listener feedback on political accountability and an interview with investigative journalist Taryn Crossman about her book, 'Undelivered', which exposes patterns of medical abuse by a rogue midwife.

EWN reporter Taviso Goba reports on the testimony of Andrea Johnson, head of the Investigating Directorate against Corruption (IDAC), before the Midlanga Commission. The report details Johnson's admission to providing an incorrect statement to Parliament regarding when she became aware of a corruption complaint filed by MP Fadil Adams. The proceedings also examine discrepancies in the number of crime intelligence officers targeted for investigation, where the list expanded from three named individuals to twelve under her authorization. The session covers intense questioning by commissioners regarding the legality of IDAC's investigative scope and whether investigators are operating outside established processes. The testimony explores the contents of case dockets and the justification used to classify certain investigations as involving high-profile or complex corruption.

This news report covers the ongoing corruption trial of former Minister of Defence and Speaker of the National Assembly, Nosiviwe Mapisa-Nkulube, and Kakula. The coverage focuses on the testimony of the state's star witness, a contractor named Nomba Santondwanslov, who alleges she was bribed to secure various tenders within the South African National Defence Force (SANDF). The report details allegations involving 12 counts of corruption and money laundering, specifically regarding payments totaling 2.15 million rand. The witness provides testimony concerning logistics tenders for moving cargo into Tanzania and the DRC, as well as her methods for establishing contact with Mapisa-Nkulube through departmental intermediaries.

A Judicial Conduct Tribunal is investigating the medical fitness of a Free State High Court judge following an eight-year period of illness and absence from the bench. The proceedings examine whether the judge's condition constitutes judicial incapacity, specifically addressing his loss of sight and limbs. The case highlights a conflict between medical assessments from ophthalmologists and the claims of traditional healers regarding the potential for recovery, as well as the financial implications of continuing to pay a permanent judge while requiring substitutes.

South African women's hockey player Ontetile Zulu joins the show to discuss the recent announcement by Gaten McKenzie regarding a three million rand pledge of financial assistance to the SA Hockey Association. Zulu reflects on her decision to speak out on social media about the financial pressures facing athletes and describes the relief felt by both the men's and women's teams as they prepare for the upcoming World Cup in Belgium. The conversation explores the immediate impact of this donation on player focus and the broader necessity for sustainable, long-term support for South African athletes leading up to the LA 2028 Olympics. The episode concludes with a discussion on the importance of prioritizing sports funding within the country.

In this episode of the Midday Report's Book of the Week, journalist Taryn Crossman discusses her investigative book, Undelivered. The book chronicles the investigation into Yolandi Moritz, a rogue midwife whose pattern of medical abuse was uncovered through the persistence of several mothers and investigative reporting by Crossman and Carte Blanche's Derek Watts. Crossman details the emotional toll of documenting years of medical malpractice and the intense process of confronting the perpetrator. The discussion covers the legal aftermath, including the landmark criminal trial and the 23-year sentencing that provided justice for the victims. The author also highlights broader concerns regarding the lack of monitoring within the private midwifery industry.

Mandy Wiener and Dr. Jean Redpath discuss President Cyril Ramaphosa's decision to clear South Gauteng Director of Public Prosecutions Andrew Chauke to return to work following the findings of the Zondo inquiry. The report details how the inquiry found no evidence to substantiate claims against Chauke regarding specific matters, effectively ending his suspension. The conversation explores the limitations of the inquiry's terms of reference, which focused on specific cases rather than a broader review of Chauke's record. Dr. Redpath provides insight into the distinction between misconduct and performance, noting that while the legal basis for removal was not met in these instances, public concerns regarding accountability and the division's conviction rates remain.

This episode covers significant legal and economic developments, beginning with the Midlanger Commission and Andrea Johnson's testimony regarding Section 27 affidavits. The report details various court proceedings, including the centralization of criminal charges against former officer Fani Nkosi, the Kat Matlala trial disputes over crime scene evidence, and the corruption trial of Nosiviwe Mapisa-Ngakula involving alleged use of Sangoma code words. Additionally, the episode explores the impact of tender corruption on healthcare, discusses South Africa's rising inflation driven by fuel and transport costs, and features an interview with professional padel player Adam Farhart regarding the upcoming tournament in Pretoria.

This episode discusses the recent acceleration of South Africa's consumer inflation rate, which rose to 5% year-on-year in June from 4.5% in May. Featuring Patrick Kelly, Chief Director for PriceStats at Stats SA, the conversation examines the drivers behind these figures, including high fuel prices and their impact on the passenger transport sector, specifically minibus taxis. The discussion also explores the volatility of different goods, noting that while food inflation has reached historically low levels, certain service costs remain sticky.

This episode covers the commencement of the corruption trial against former National Assembly Speaker Nosidviwema Pisan Krakula in the Pretoria High Court. The report details 13 counts involving corruption and money laundering, highlighting a unique courtroom presentation by the NPA that utilized a PowerPoint presentation to illustrate allegations. The coverage explores the specific methods allegedly used to solicit bribes through the use of traditional Sangoma code words such as 'Induumba' and 'Impepo'. Additionally, the report discusses the role of General Bantu Olomisa, the main complainant and former Minister of Defence, in bringing these charges forward after initial parliamentary committees failed to act.

This report covers the second court appearance of Ndodana Chuma at the Johannesburg Magistrates Court. The 45-year-old British national is facing two distinct legal issues in South Africa: a charge regarding the illegal possession of a firearm and ammunition, and an extradition process related to the alleged murders of his wife and two daughters in Bedfordshire, UK. The proceedings involve separate magistrates for the firearm possession case and the extradition request. While the defense has opted not to apply for bail at this stage, South African authorities await further documentation from UK authorities to finalize the extradition process. Recent post-mortem results from the UK investigation indicate that the victims died from blunt force trauma.

This episode covers developments in the Kat Matlala trial at the Joburg High Court, focusing on the cross-examination of a witness regarding an alleged attempted hit at the St. Chiron Golf Estate. The report details legal disputes over the introduction of photographic and video evidence intended to depict the crime scene, as well as disagreements between the defense and the state regarding the exact location and orientation of the incident involving vehicles such as a BMW and a Ferrari. EWN reporter Demokato Leshorreo provides an update on the courtroom proceedings, noting that the court has blocked certain visual evidence due to authentication issues. The discussion highlights the ongoing tension in the trial as the defense seeks to establish the specifics of the crime scene while the state objects to related lines of questioning.

An interview with South African padel player Adam Farhart regarding the upcoming Premier Padel P1 tournament in Pretoria. The discussion covers the tournament details at Sunbet Arena, featuring top international players like Tapia and Coello, and the rapid growth of padel within South Africa. Farhart discusses the social appeal of the sport, its potential to replace golf for corporate networking, and the impact of hosting world-class athletes on inspiring the next generation of local players.

This episode covers the testimony of Andrea Johnson, head of the Investigating Directorate against Corruption (IDAC), before the Midlanga Commission. The proceedings focus on whether IDAC solicited a Section 27 affidavit from MP Fadil Adams and if the scope of the investigation into crime intelligence officials was improperly expanded beyond the initial request regarding docket interception. The discussion explores allegations of procurement manipulation, unlawful appointments, and the potential misuse of secret service funds involving high-ranking police figures.

EWN reporter Alfred Amashwana provides an update on the legal proceedings involving Sergeant Fanny Nkosi, a suspended officer from the Organised Crime Unit. The report details the centralization of two separate criminal charges against Nkosi into a single trial at the Pretoria North Magistrates Court. The allegations include the possession of unauthorized police dockets, ammunition, and a stun grenade at his residence, as well as an attempt to take marijuana from police custody under false pretenses. The discussion covers the current status of the state's investigation and the possibility of additional charges arising from findings at the Midlange Commission of Inquiry. The reporter notes that investigators are continuing to examine evidence that could lead to further arrests, following a pattern observed in similar high-profile cases.

This episode covers several ongoing legal developments in South Africa, including the testimony of IDAC head Andrea Johnson at the Madlaga Commission, where she denies allegations of political motivation in her investigations. The report also details conflicting accounts in a precious stones theft bail application involving Julius Mkwanazi and Witness K, alongside the trial of alleged crime boss Kat Matlala. Additionally, the episode explores the financial crisis facing the City of Ekurhuleni, which faces massive debt to creditors. Other topics include discussions on government spending disparities regarding World Cup travel versus local sports funding, and updates on the legal proceedings surrounding the fatal Usundiso building fire.

An interview with Katucelo Rasilingwani, the Democratic Alliance mayoral candidate for Ekurhuleni, regarding the city's severe financial crisis. Following confirmation from the Gauteng Finance MEC, it is revealed that Ekurhuleni owes creditors more than seven billion rand, leaving the municipality with only two billion rand in cash. The discussion covers the implications of this debt on service delivery, including risks of water and electricity restrictions by Randwater and Eskom, and the abandonment of infrastructure projects due to unpaid suppliers.

EWN reporter Nkosi Kona provides an update on the legal proceedings involving Sthembiso Mdlalose at the Johannesburg High Court. The report details the postponement of the verdict to August 12th, a decision driven by Judge Kasim Musa's concurrent involvement in the Kat Matlala trial and discrepancies identified in post-mortem reports involving 76 lives. The coverage touches upon the defendant's previous admissions of guilt and his claims regarding drug influence and motives for seeking imprisonment.

The criminal trial of alleged crime boss Wusimuzi Akat Matlala has commenced, featuring testimony from a security guard regarding an attempted assassination in Centurion. The witness, Bethuel Ghele, detailed a violent incident involving vehicles including a Ferrari and a BMW, where occupants armed with AK-47 assault rifles opened fire on a Golf 7. The report also covers legal disputes regarding the authenticity of video evidence and the status of Section 220 admissions from the defense.

This report covers the final arguments and imminent ruling regarding the bail application for Julius Mkwanazi and Witness K. The accused face Schedule 6 charges related to the 2023 theft of precious stones valued at approximately 14.9 million rand from a Killarney apartment. The transcript details the conflicting testimonies between the two defendants, where one admits to the theft while the other claims the incident was a legitimate police operation motivated by personal spite. The coverage also provides context on Mkwanazi's broader legal situation, noting that he is simultaneously facing multiple other criminal cases, including allegations involving the City Manager of Ekurhuleni and the Blue Light Saga. The report concludes with an update from the courtroom as the magistrate prepares to hand down a decision.

The Midday Report covers the highly anticipated testimony of Investigating Directorate (IDAC) head Andrea Johnson before the Malan Commission. The report details her defense against allegations that IDAC is being used for political purposes to target specific officials within SAPS Crime Intelligence, specifically regarding the case of Lieutenant General Dumisani Kumalo. Reporter Tobiso Gorba provides insights into the ongoing investigation into alleged cronyism and the strategic placement of individuals in senior positions to access departmental resources. Additionally, the broadcast addresses serious security concerns following Johnson's disclosure of receiving death threats via burner phone during her investigations.

This episode covers a range of legal and political developments, including the commencement of the Kat Matlala attempted murder trial and court appearances for Julius Mkwanazi and Witness K regarding precious stones theft. The report also details a 16 million rand tender scandal involving the Mfuleni Municipality Fleet Manager and the DA's inquiries into the effectiveness of Operation Prosper. In sports, the program celebrates Spain's World Cup victory over Argentina and reviews recent rugby performances by the Springboks and Junior Boks. The episode concludes with updates on the EFF's upcoming anniversary rally, as well as brief mentions of the Tour de France and F1.

A review of recent international sporting events, covering football, rugby, cycling, and Formula 1. The discussion begins with reflections on the conclusion of the World Cup and the upcoming Commonwealth Games and Women's AFCON. The conversation shifts to rugby, analyzing the Springboks' victory over Wales and the success of the Junior Boks under Kevin Foote, noting the strength of South Africa's rugby pipeline across various levels. The episode concludes with brief updates on the Tour de France and recent developments in Formula 1.

This episode reports from Madrid following Spain's victory over Argentina in the World Cup final, marking the nation's second star. Correspondent Nicolas Bauer describes the widespread celebrations across Spanish society, noting the presence of diverse groups and even members of the Argentinian community joining the festivities. The discussion covers the tactical style of the Spanish team, the social impact of the win on a divided nation, and the emergence of Lamine Yamal as a future football icon. Looking ahead, the segment touches upon the upcoming World Cup to be hosted in Spain.

The Midday Reports with Mandy Wiener covers the Economic Freedom Fighters (EFF) holding its 7th Central Command meeting of the 3rd National People's Assembly. The meeting takes place ahead of the party's 13th anniversary rally and manifesto launch scheduled for the upcoming weekend in Limpopo. The report explores the significance of this central command meeting as the party's highest decision-making body between conferences and notes potential discussions regarding leadership affidavits filed with the Maguire Commission.

This episode features an interview with Nicholas Gotzel, the DA-NCOP member on security and justice, regarding the effectiveness of Operation Prosper in addressing gang violence in Cape Town. The discussion focuses on a recent access to information request filed by the Democratic Alliance to evaluate the real impact of the operation following reports of increased killings and shootings involving children on the Cape Flats. Gotzel raises critical questions concerning the metrics of success for the operation, the transparency of spending, and whether police efforts are leading to actual convictions of high-level gang members.

Former Mfuleni Municipality Fleet Manager Lerato Mpulo appeared in Funderbell Park Magistrates Court facing fraud and corruption charges related to a 16 million rand tender scandal. The allegations involve the procurement of 18 vehicles, including trucks, where only seven vehicles were reportedly delivered. The court proceedings included defense requests for disclosure regarding a statement made by Mpulo during police questioning. The report also connects this tender saga to the investigation of a whistleblower's assassination. Police confirmation indicates that the fleet tender scandal was part of the complaints filed by the deceased Mfuleni municipality employee, Martha, prior to her death. Investigations into the case are ongoing, with authorities stating that further arrests cannot be ruled out.

This report covers the first court appearance of Julius Mkwanazi and Witness K in the Johannesburg Magistrate's Court regarding the theft of precious stones worth almost 15 million rands from a Killarney apartment. The coverage details the legal proceedings, including the upcoming formal bail application under Schedule 6 and the ongoing investigations into Mkwanazi's multiple legal cases. The report also touches upon the anonymity of Witness K due to safety concerns and includes listener feedback regarding various topics, ranging from local crime to recent football match frustrations.

This episode covers a series of significant court appearances, focusing primarily on the trial of alleged crime boss Wusimusi Kat Matlala and four others. The proceedings involve an attempted murder case involving shots fired at Kat Matlala's former girlfriend, Taboko Tobajani, and a friend who is now wheelchair-bound. The report details ongoing legal disputes regarding trial delays, the availability of counsel, and the potential links between the accused and numerous other criminal cases investigated by the Gauteng Organized Crime unit.

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.