The Burning Platform: Recent Episodes
CliffCentral.com
Various people in the know tell us the truth about what’s going on in South African and global politics.
Why does Israel believe the world misunderstands its actions? Phumi
Mashigo gets into a conversation about this with Ambassador Mark Regev,
one of Israel's most experienced diplomats and communicators. Having
served as the country's international spokesman, ambassador, and senior
adviser to the Prime Minister, Regev has spent decades explaining
Israel's decisions to the world. They unpack the realities of diplomacy,
the role of media and narrative, the aftermath of 7 October, and the
complex relationship between security, politics, and public opinion. The Burning Platform
In this episode we bring together political leaders and commentators for an unfiltered discussion on one of South Africa's most pressing and divisive issues; illegal immigration and its ripple effect on governance, crime, economic growth, and the future of the country. Following the events surrounding the March and March protests on the 30th of June, the panel examines what really happened, whether the demonstrations achieved their intended goals, and what practical solutions exist beyond political rhetoric.
Moderated by Justice Malala, the panel consisted of:
Solly Mkhize from the Patriotic Alliance
Herman Mashaba from ActionSA
Sihle Ngubane from uMkhonto weSizwe (MK) Party
Donovan E. Williams - Political Commentator The Burning Platform
Are we paying enough attention to the warning signs? With
crime, protest, poverty, and public trust being increasingly
intertwined, Phumi Mashigo speaks to two experts to unpack what's
driving tensions, political and otherwise, and what can be done to build
a more stable future. She is joined by David Bruce, researcher, writer,
and analyst; as well as Thato Masiangoako, researcher at the
Socio-Economic Rights Institute of South Africa (SERI). The Burning Platform
What does Johannesburg need most right now? Better
management, bold ideas, or both? Phumi Mashigo speaks with Nobuntu
Hlazo-Webster about her journey into politics, her plans to restore
confidence in city governance, and what a Build One South Africa-led
Johannesburg could look like. The Burning Platform
Can a nation built on freedom still be grappling with who
truly belongs? As the United States marks 250 years of independence,
Phumi Mashigo unpacks the promises and contradictions that have shaped
the American story. She is joined by Charles Belk, founder of "Fitting
The Description", a nonprofit focused on addressing wrongful arrests and
mistaken identity cases. Charles gained international attention in 2014
after being wrongfully arrested for armed bank robbery because he "fit
the description" of a suspect. Together, they discuss the lessons of
history, the realities of the present, and what the next chapter of the
American experiment could look like. The Burning Platform
What sparked the illegal immigration protests? Recent
protests across the country have exposed growing frustrations around
illegal immigration, service delivery, unemployment, crime, and the
perceived failure of the state to respond effectively. Yet beneath the
headlines lies a far more complex conversation about policy,
accountability, human rights, and national identity. Phumi Mashigo
speaks with political commentator and author Rebone Tau about what is
fuelling public anger, whether the concerns being raised are justified,
and how South Africa can navigate one of the most difficult policy
challenges facing the country today. The Burning Platform
What lessons can be drawn from decades spent in activism, labour movements, government, and politics? Patrick Motubase joins Phumi Mashigo for a wide-ranging discussion about his path through South Africa's democratic journey, the work of the MK Party, and the opportunities and obstacles that lie ahead for the country's next generation. The Burning Platform
As South Africa reflects on five decades since the Soweto Uprising, a
critical question remains: have young people inherited freedom, or
unfinished business? Host Siya Sangweni brings together youth leaders to
discuss opportunity, inequality, leadership, and the future of democracy
in South Africa. Featuring ANC’s Onwabile Lubhelwana, uMkhonto weSizwe’s
Sthembile Nkosi, Defend Our Democracy’s Wade Manning, RISE Mzansi’s
Lawrence Manaka, Patriotic Alliance’s Kotlwano Seloane and Action SA’s
Advice Chuma. The Burning Platform
What happens when a student activist enters the political
establishment? Naledi Chirwa-Mpungose joins Phumi Mashigo for a
wide-ranging discussion on power, protest, Parliament and the issues
that matter most to young South Africans. From jobs and education to the
GNU, youth participation and protecting women and children, this episode
examines whether South Africa is creating opportunities for its youth,
or failing them. The Burning Platform
50 years later - has South Africa kept its promise to the youth? As
South Africa marks Youth Month, Phumi Mashigo sits down with Seth
Mazibuko, one of the surviving leaders of the Soweto Uprising. Together
they explore the promises of democracy, the challenges facing young
people today and whether the aspirations of the 1976 generation have
truly been realised. The Burning Platform
How do the descendants of South Africa’s most famous
freedom fighters understand freedom in today's world? Phumi Mashigo
speaks with Princesses Swati Mandela-Dlamini and Zaziwe Manaway, two of
Nelson and Winnie Madikizela-Mandela’s granddaughters about the deeply
personal stories behind their new Netflix documentary. Serving as
co-producers of the Netflix documentary series “The Trials of Winnie
Mandela”, Phumi speaks to the pair about growing up within a family that
played a central role in South Africa’s liberation struggle, the lasting
impact of apartheid on their lives, and the responsibility that comes
with preserving an important chapter of the country's history. Through
their candid reflections, they offer a unique perspective on legacy,
identity and the continuing relevance of the struggle for freedom. The Burning Platform
South Africa's informal economy is everywhere - from taxi ranks and
pavement stalls to township salons and spaza shops. But is it simply a
response to unemployment and inequality, or is it becoming the country's
real engine of growth and innovation?
Justice Malala leads an expert panel for a provocative conversation
exploring who South Africa's economy is really built for - and what the
rise of informal trade says about the future of work, opportunity, and
survival in South Africa.
Panel:
Kefilwe Ndaba - National Informal Traders Alliance of South Africa
(NITASA)
Botsang Moiloa - Action SA
Lubabalo Magwentshu - African Transformation Movement
Tags:
South Africa, Democracy Unplugged, Podcast Party SA, Justice Malala,
politics, current affairs, informal trade, economy, news, Action SA,
African Transformation Movement The Burning Platform
What happens when one of the world’s most progressive
constitutions collides with corruption, inequality and political
dysfunction? In this week’s episode, Phumi Mashigo explores whether
South Africa’s democracy is being protected, or slowly weakened, and why
the Constitution still matters now more than ever. She is joined by
human rights lawyer, policy advocate, and civil society leader, Nicole
Fritz. The Burning Platform
Did South Africans buy into hope, only to end up
confronting more political disappointment? Phumi Mashigo dives into
President Ramaphosa’s Phala Phala fallout, the ANC’s growing credibility
crisis, and the debate over whether Cyril Ramaphosa is a consensus
builder - or simply too passive for the moment South Africa finds itself
in. She is joined by Mametlwe Sebei, Lecturer, College of Law,
University of South Africa. The Burning Platform
Following our previous education discussion, a clearer picture begins to emerge: one defined not just by underperformance, but by mounting pressure. Demand is rising faster than capacity, and while the state continues to expand its role, it’s increasingly doing so through partnerships that sit adjacent to the system itself.
So what does this mean in practice? As the model of education begins to shift toward more specialised pathways, the tension between ambition and delivery becomes harder to ignore. In this episode, Phumi Mashigo explores that gap, and brings in Onwabile Lubhelwana, spokesperson to the Gauteng MEC for Basic Education Lebogang Maile, to understand how this evolving system is being carried forward today. The Burning Platform
South Africa is a young democracy, yet its voters are ageing while optimism continues to fade. Every election cycle raises the same concerns about youth disengagement and low voter turnout, but the deeper issue may not be a lack of understanding—it may be a loss of belief in impact. For many young people, participation is no longer seen as a meaningful tool for change, especially in the face of corruption, unemployment, and poor service delivery. This conversation explores whether democracy is still showing up in people’s daily lives in a way they can recognise, and challenges the idea that disengagement is harmless. Instead, it argues that stepping away from the process may actually weaken the very system capable of driving change, making active participation more important than ever for shaping South Africa’s future. The Burning Platform
What has 30 years of education reform in South Africa actually produced?
For more than three decades, James Urdang has worked at the intersection
of education, civil society, and social change. As the founder of
Education Africa, his work has been shaped by a clear belief that
education remains one of the most powerful tools for breaking the cycle
of poverty.
What makes his perspective especially valuable is not only what he has
built, but what he has witnessed over time. From the early years of
democratic transformation to the realities facing schools today, his
journey offers a rare long view of how the system has evolved. This
conversation with Phumi Mashigo asks a difficult but necessary question.
After three decades of effort, investment, and ambition, what progress
can we truly see, and what still remains unfinished? The Burning Platform
Who is responsible when service delivery stops working, and how do we
fix it? Phumi Mashigo moderates this timely conversation with a panel of
politicians on the state of infrastructure in South Africa’s urban
centres, the barriers to delivery, and the solutions needed to rebuild
confidence in our cities. Featuring Freedom Front Plus’ Jaco Mulder,
political commentator and Youtuber June Hlongwane and DA's Kingsol
Chabalala. The Burning Platform
Nearly 30 years into democracy, why are housing rights still being
fought for in court? Housing is a constitutional right in South Africa,
yet for millions of people it remains out of reach. In this episode,
Phumi Mashigo sits down with Nomzamo Zondo, Executive Director:
Socio-Economic Rights Institute (SERI) to unpack the reality behind
evictions, informal settlements, and the widening gap between what the
Constitution promises and what people actually experience. From court
battles that prevent families from losing their homes to the slow pace
of government delivery, the conversation explores why housing rights are
still being fought for in court, the tension between law, policy and
real-life implementation, and how informal settlements continue to shape
the country’s cities. At its core, it asks a critical question: if the
Constitution is clear, why are so many South Africans still without
secure housing? The Burning Platform
In this episode, Phumi sits down with a parliamentarian to unpack the real impact of the bill, from controversial definitions of “smoking” to the unintended consequences for informal traders and the economy.
They discuss:
Why smokers could technically be arrested in their own cars or homes
The explosive growth of the illicit cigarette market
How stricter regulations could hurt township economies
Whether the government even has the capacity to enforce the law
Is this smart public health policy or a law that misses the mark entirely? The Burning Platform
What do young South Africans really want from politics today? Recorded live at University of Johannesburg, Phumi Mashigo places students at the centre of the national conversation. Lehumo Dibakoane (UJ SRC President), Donald Mkhwanazi (Student leader), and Angelic Mafadza (Student leader) participate in this candid discussion about youth priorities, political participation, and the realities young South Africans are navigating today. The Burning Platform
A loaf of bread can feed a family for a day - but can it fix a broken political system? A video showing people wearing African National Congress (ANC) regalia distributing loaves of bread to residents with the phrase ‘one loaf, one family - there is life with the ANC’ has sparked a strong public reaction. Phumi Mashigo interviews Tsepo Mhlongo about this video, and to hear his argument that South Africa’s political leadership must move beyond symbolic campaign gestures and start delivering real solutions. They discuss the country’s unemployment crisis, the role of political accountability, and what leadership should look like if South Africa truly wants to build a better future. The Burning Platform
What really drives South Africa’s illegal mining crisis, and how does this impact you? Phumi Mashigo investigates the complex world of so-called “zama zama” miners and the forces that keep the underground economy alive. She is joined by guests Sabelo Mnguni, National Coordinator at Mining Affected Communities United in Action (MACUA); Kgothatso Nhlengetwa, Artisanal Mining Specialist and founding Director at Imbokodo Mining Services; and African Transformation Movement’s Vuyo Zungula. Together they explore why illegal mining has become such a deeply entrenched challenge in South Africa, and why policing alone may never solve it. The Burning Platform
Is South Africa’s economy on the brink of renewal, or just
surviving? Directly after Minister Enoch Godongwana delivered his 2026
Budget Speech, political commentator and author Justice Malala led a
high-stakes discussion from Cape Town with politicians unpacking the
country’s finances - featuring DA’s Dr Mark Burke, RISE Mzansi’s
Makashule Gana, SACP’s Anthony Dietrich and Action SA’s Alan Beesley. The Burning Platform
Is South Africa’s national budget really working for our households? Phumi Mashigo examines what a truly community-centred national budget would look like, from food affordability and social grants to VAT increases, austerity, and fiscal anchors. This conversation is joined by Mervyn Abrahams, Programme coordinator at the Pietermaritzburg Economic Justice and Dignity Group; Dr Siphesihle Qange, Programme Manager at Seriti Institute; and Liso Mdutyana from Institute for Economic Justice. The Burning Platform
What has been delivered since the last State of the Nation (SONA), and what does that mean for ordinary South Africans? In his address last year, the President signalled a renewed focus on healthcare - from advancing the National Health Insurance (NHI) roll-out, to infrastructure upgrades for hospitals and clinics, to responding to the loss of major foreign health funding from PEPFAR and USAID. This episode helps you assess whether those promises moved beyond rhetoric into real change. Phumi Mashigo is joined by Matshidiso Lencoasa, budget expert with Section 27, the public interest law centre that tracks government policy and spending on essential services. The Burning Platform
What has changed since last year’s State of the Nation (SONA) promises? At last year’s SONA, water infrastructure was particularly framed as a national priority yet in parts of Johannesburg, the heart of South Africa’s economy, and in municipalities across the country, taps still run dry. Treatment plants fail. Maintenance collapses. Phumi Mashigo, along with Dr Ferrial Adam from WaterCAN, a civic organisation focused on water accountability, look at how this all came to be and whether we can have hope that the dire situation will actually improve. The Burning Platform
Can South Africa defend human rights without the power to enforce them? South Africa speaks confidently about justice, peace, and human rights on the world stage. But holding that position requires real capacity, and that’s where things get complicated. Phumi Mashigo explores the consequences of a country that still wants to lead morally, but may no longer have the muscle to do so. How does this affect South Africa’s standing - and the lives of its people? Human rights activist and Chairman of the Rwanda National
Congress (RNC), Frank Ntwali, and defence analyst and associate editor of The Daily Friend, Ricardo Teixeira, join the conversation to unpack what’s
changing, what’s being lost, and what it all means. The Burning Platform
This edition of Democracy Unplugged is a forward-looking conversation on
where South Africa, and the world, is headed politically. Phumi Mashigo
picks the brains of Ismael Steenkamp, ward 29 councillor from the
Patriotic Alliance; Solly Msimanga, leader of the opposition in the
Gauteng Legislature from the Democratic Alliance; and Lerato Madisha,
grassroots activist and community leader within the Gauteng government
from Build One South Africa. This is an insightful look at the impact
and the future of democracy.
Want to be part of the live audience? Democracy Unplugged records once a
month from our Sandton studios. Email contact@podcastparty.co.za to
request free tickets. The Burning Platform
Higher education in South Africa - are we future-proofing the country, or stuck in an old system? Just after the grade 12 results have been released, Phumi Mashigo hosts a conversation that cuts through the feel-good headlines and asks harder questions about the system. She’s joined by Hendrik Makaneta, education activist, former teacher and director of the Foundation for Education and Social Justice, as well as Dr Linda Meyer; the managing director of ADvTECH, Africa's leading private education provider. The Burning Platform
How do South Africa’s laws and policies come to be, and what can you do to be part of the change? Phumi Mashigo dives into the stages and processes involved in making or changing a law, with RISE Mzansi’s Makashule Gana and The New South Institute’s Ivor Chipkin. This episode brings an understand of the nation’s policy making process, how the public can participate in the legislative process, and shedding light on some of the legal changes we can anticipate in 2026. The Burning Platform
What should citizens be watching — not emotionally, but analytically — as we head into 2026? Kicking off the new political year, Phumi Mashigo speaks to Dr Levy Ndou (political analyst and politics lecturer at the Tshwane University of Technology) for a catch-up on Jan 8, the 114th birthday of the ANC - a liberation movement that became a governing party, and now governs in coalition after losing its majority for the first time. Class is in session! The Burning Platform
What can we learn from 2025 to anticipate where the world is going next year? In this year-end conversation, State of the Nation host Mike Sham joins Phumi Mashigo for an unfiltered assessment of our political reality. This conversation cuts through the spin to examine local and global happenings, asking what the year truly revealed about accountability and the political path going forward. The Burning Platform
What will it take to turn South Africa’s municipal crisis around? Can
local government still be rescued before the 2026 elections?
In this follow-up episode of Democracy Unplugged, moderator Phumi
Mashigo brings together panelists from multiple political parties to
confront the question head-on. Featuring Afrika Mayibuye Movement’s
Sydney Baloyi, PAC’s Jaki Seroke, GOOD’s Sarah Mabotsa and Action SA’s
Kholofelo Morodi. The Burning Platform
Artificial Intelligence (AI) is re-writing the rules. Are we ready? In this episode of Democracy Unplugged Timothy Maurice Webster leads a dynamic conversation with AI experts George Nichas, Callan Abrahams and Mushambi Mutuma on how AI is reshaping work, creativity, governance, and daily life. The Burning Platform
What does South Africa need now, according to Floyd Shivambu? And will he be the answer to our political problems? Phumi Mashigo unpacks the evolution behind the headlines with him - from the ANC Youth League to the EFF, a stint in MK, and now his role in shaping the Afrika Maibuye Movement. Is this reinvention or conviction in motion? Floyd speaks candidly about ideological consistency, political disillusionment, organisational decay, and why he believes South Africa still needs a true revolutionary movement. If you've ever wondered what motivates a strategist to abandon comfort for controversy, this conversation is essential listening. The Burning Platform
Johannesburg is falling apart - power cuts, potholes, broken pipes,
waste piling up, and corruption choking the city that once symbolised
South Africa’s promise. But one of the country’s most formidable
political figures says she can fix it. Phumi Mashigo sits down with
Helen Zille, the former Mayor of Cape Town, Western Cape Premier, and
now 2026 Johannesburg Mayoral candidate for the Democratic Alliance.
She’s one of the most polarising voices in South African politics, and
the question that everyone’s been whispering is asked: Can she really
save Johannesburg? The Burning Platform
Local government is meant to be the heartbeat of democracy. But as cities crumble, services collapse, and trust erodes, South Africans are asking: can our municipalities still be saved? In this episode of Democracy Unplugged, host Phumi Mashigo leads an honest discussion with a panel of political leaders tackling the state of local governance ahead of the 2026 municipal elections. From collapsing infrastructure to coalition chaos as well as lessons from the GNU, this episode asks what real local leadership should look like in 2026 and beyond. The Burning Platform
What does it really take to root out corruption in South Africa?
Stand-in host Xavier Bapoo speaks to former South African Police Service
(SAPS) Anti-Corruption Unit head Stefan Grobler and specialist
investigator Mike Bolhuis about the deep-seated culture of corruption
exposed by the Madlanga Commission. This conversation lays bare the
forces eroding accountability, looking at political interference, the
dismantling of anti-corruption structures to the risks faced by
investigators on the front lines, exploring what it will take to rebuild
integrity and justice in South Africa’s institutions, and more. The Burning Platform
What does South Africa’s G20 presidency mean for the country’s future?
In this episode of LevelUp, Phumi speaks with Ercilia Mata Ubisse, Regional Head for the Aspen Network of Development Entrepreneurs (ANDE) and a member of the Startup20 Foundations & Alliances Taskforce, to unpack how small business, collaboration, and policy can reshape global development from an African lens. The Burning Platform
How does a values-based politics survive in a system built on power and pragmatism? And what drives a leader who still speaks of conviction in an age of calculation? In the noise of South Africa’s political landscape in flux, African Transformation Movement’s parliamentary leader Vuyo Zungula stands out for being both familiar and unexpected: a young leader who speaks the language of faith, morality, and transformation. In this episode, he speaks to Phumi Mashigo about making his way through the dynamics of politics: the old liberation parties are grappling with legitimacy, new alliances are reshaping the centre, and voters are searching for voices that sound like conviction - not convenience. The Burning Platform
Is local government failing the people? Part two of our discussion on local government - Phumi Mashigo discusses this with Sabelo Skiti, Sunday Times Investigative Journalist, Bongekile Macupe, News24 Deputy Politics Editor, and Mayihlome Tshwete, former government spokesperson and political commentator. What do voters in Gauteng really want to see and hear going into the local government campaign season? And was that councillors roll call at FNB a good idea or not? This is a fascinating conversation on politics, power and what’s next for South Africa. The Burning Platform
South Africa is running out of time. Load shedding, unemployment, corruption, crumbling infrastructure - the challenges keep stacking up. But can business step in where government is failing and help put the country back on solid footing?
Join us for this urgent conversation with moderator Justice Malala, political economist Moeletsi Mbeki, corporate leader Bonang Mohale, founder of ActionSA Herman Mashaba and CEO of Sakeliga, Piet le Roux. The Burning Platform
How do criminals exploit borders, trade systems, and corruption to move their money? For most of us the idea of ‘fake’ cigarettes and illicit trade really came to the fore during the Covid Lockdowns when even law abiding South Africans found themselves looking in the strangest places for their fix. Since then the conversations about illicit trade, the financial Action Task Force greylisting of South Africa for among others terror funding and funny money has become an almost daily conversation.
Phumi Mashigo speaks to Rohan Pike, a commonwealth law enforcement expert on border controls, foreign bribery, trade crime, money laundering and corruption to compare how South Africa is doing in contrast with other countries faced with similar challenges. The Burning Platform
Is Helen Zille right for mayor of JHB? Has the mainstream media
left us in the lurch when thinking about our choices? And has the ANC
abandoned its post when choosing who to put forward for the positions of
mayor? Phumi Mashigo asks these of her esteemed panel: Sabelo Skiti,
Sunday Times Investigative Journalist, Mayihlome Tshwete, former
government spokesperson and political commentator, and Solly Msimanga,
DA Gauteng Leader. The Burning Platform
Is Helen Zille right for mayor of JHB? Has the mainstream media left us in the lurch when thinking about our choices? And has the ANC abandoned its post when choosing who to put forward for the positions of mayor? Phumi Mashigo asks these of her esteemed panel: Sabelo Skiti, Sunday Times Investigative Journalist; Mayihlome Tshwete, former government spokesperson and political commentator; and Solly Msimanga, DA Gauteng Leader. The Burning Platform
Who's profiting from SA’s black market? Who's paying the price? And what will it take to stop the cycle of chaos? Following from our previous Democracy Unplugged panel on crime, host Penuel the Black Pen continues the discussion with Free Market Foundation CEO David Ansara, Business Unity South Africa CEO Khulekani Mathe and Chad Thomas, IRS Forensic Investigations CEO. The Burning Platform
Have you ever thought how the gogo on the side of the road selling her
vegetables or the flower trader at the station is affected by the
decisions made in the legislature regarding trade and industry? Or even
if their voices are ever considered in those ever talked about
consultative processes? Rosheda Muller is the National President of the
National Informal Traders Alliance of South Africa (NITASA) and she
joins Phumi Mashigo to talk about her work, the organisation’s members
and the voices of the trader outside your car window at the traffic light. The Burning Platform
Is political interference endemic in South Africa’s governance failures? Dr Simo Lushaba from the Institute of Directors SA and Wayne Duvenage from OUTA joins Phumi Mashigo to unpack the tensions between boards and ministers in state-owned entities. With SA Tourism once again in the spotlight after Minister Patricia de Lille dissolved its board, we explore where the line should be drawn between legitimate shareholder oversight and ministerial overreach. The Burning Platform
What is the price of speaking out? Four years after the brutal murder of whistleblower Babita Deokaran the conversation about protection and support for whistleblowers. Phumi Mashigo is joined by social justice activist Tebogo Khaas and whistleblower Martha Ngoye to talk about changing the negative term “impimpi” to a valued guard of our social fabric. The Burning Platform
Has South Africa collapsed? Embattled PRASA CEO and now Member of parliament for the MK, Lucky Montana seems to think so. He joins Phumi Mashigo for a wide-ranging conversation about changing his allegiance from ANC to MK and what he believes a collapsed nation can gain from his new party and its ideology. The Burning Platform
Is it fair to judge the National Dialogue before it’s even finished? Phumi Mashigo digs deeper into South Africa’s much-debated, two-day gathering of politicians, activists, academics, and community voices. While critics were quick to call it a failure, this episode asks: what did the headlines miss? Political analyst Matlala Setlhalogile; Project Leader of Indlulamithi SA Scenarios, Xolelwa Kashe-Katiya; and urban sociologist and author, Leslie Dikeni join the discussion. The Burning Platform
What does it mean to be a woman in today’s world, and how do we create a future where women are truly valued? Phumi Mashigo along with Ayanda Allie and Mandisa Mashego have an unfiltered conversation about womanhood, feminism, and the complex realities women face in South Africa today. In honour of Women’s Month, this discussion dives deep and makes for an honest, and necessary dialogue. The Burning Platform
Is transparency possible in South Africa's government? Phumi Mashigo dives deep into political accountability, corruption, and the role of citizens in demanding better governance for our country. Together with writer Siya Khumalo and OUTA's Wayne Duvenage, they explore whether new political approaches could be the way forward, how money is extracted from the political system, the complexities of political funding, and whether South Africa’s strong anti-corruption laws are enough to make a difference. This is an in-depth look into an urgent political issue. The Burning Platform
What’s really going on with crime in South Africa? How did we get to this point? Phumi Mashigo gets investigative journalist and AmaBhungane’s Sam Sole to unpack the alarming state of crime and policing in South Africa today. Following the theatrics of Police Commissioner Mkhwanazi and more recently, the implications of President Ramaphosa’s fifth judicial commission, together they look at what this could all mean for the country’s future. The Burning Platform
A heated police expose, a judge in the midst of a sexual harassment saga and more have gripped the nation - where does South Africa go from here? Phumi Mashigo speaks to political commentator Xavier Bapoo about that. The Burning Platform
Are we misunderstanding the roots of the Middle East conflict? Phumi Mashigo sits down with Brooke Goldstein, human rights attorney, filmmaker, and advocate, to unpack the complex realities of the Middle East conflict. Together, they explore the meaning of freedom, the role of force, and what’s truly at stake for the region’s future. This conversation goes beyond headlines to examine how justice, identity, and international law shape one of the world’s most polarising debates. The Burning Platform
Where is the GNU headed? Strategist, columnist, lecturer, and Action SA member Solly Moeng joins Phumi Mashigo on #LevelUp to take stock of South Africa's political happenings as they review the Government of National Unity (GNU) so far. The Burning Platform
Is this the countdown to chaos? Phumi Mashigo asks this of activist Elaaheh Jamali as they unpack the rising tensions between Iran, Israel, and the United States. What’s really driving the conflict? Is the region on the brink of a broader war - or is there still room for diplomacy? Elaaheh offers sharp insights into the historical context, current pressure points, and what the world should be watching next. The Burning Platform
Who really shapes South Africa’s policy? A growing influence of foreign-funded NGOs in shaping South Africa’s legislation leads Level Up with Phumi Mashigo to interrogate this question. She is joined by Nhlanhla Ndlovu, CEO of NEDLAC Community Trust, a Community Constituency Structure, to explore whether international policy templates are drowning out South African realities, and what it will take to ensure local NGOs have a meaningful voice in the process. The Burning Platform
What is AfriForum’s vision for South Africa? Following their Democracy Unplugged panel discussion, Phumi Mashigo sits down with the organisation’s Ernst van Zyl for a candid conversation on its roots, its role in defending minority rights, and its views on South Africa’s current challenges and its controversial engagement with U.S. officials. As South Africa navigates complex political terrain, AfriForum shares its vision, and what its future hopes to look like. The Burning Platform
What happens when trust in money breaks down? In these economic times, Phumi Mashigo explores money, economies and more with author of "Money: A Story of Humanity" and economist David McWilliams. This conversation shows how money isn't just a financial tool - it's a shared belief, a social contract and one of the most powerful forces shaping our world. The Burning Platform
Is South Africa serious about fighting organised crime, or just blowing smoke? Phumi Mashigo takes a dive into the dark underbelly of our tobacco market with industry expert Johnny Moloto. As the Area Head of Corporate & Regulatory Affairs at British American Tobacco (BAT) Sub-Saharan Africa, Johnny unpacks the deep economic and public health impact of the trade - and why he believes foreign influence and weak enforcement are sabotaging efforts to fix it. He critiques the Tobacco Control Bill, questions government accountability, and calls for bold leadership, better regulation, and stronger action from SARS. The Burning Platform
What are the real-time funding crises in South Africa, and how are they affecting vital health and social services, especially in underserved communities? In this powerful episode of Level Up, Phumi Mashigo is joined by thought-leader and social justice veteran Lebogang Ramafoko for a fearless deep dive into the state of South Africa’s NGO sector. From the fallout of USAID’s shutdown to the political ripple effects of foreign funding, Lebogang unpacks the growing tension between international donor agendas and local grassroots priorities. With nearly three decades of experience in health, media, and activism, she offers sharp insights on policy manipulation, government overreach, and the fragile social safety net NGOs are expected to uphold - often without the power or protection they need. The Burning Platform
With the court now pausing the VAT hike in South Africa, where will the money come from to plug the budget deficit? What happens to the two key bills the minister tabled alongside the framework? And what does this mean for you and your pocket?
Phumi Mashigo breaks this down with Tara Roos, a sharp, young policy mind in Parliament as a researcher for various portfolio committees, founder of the Participation Project and So We Vote on IG, former UNESCO Youth Ambassador, and someone who’s had a seat at the table on global youth and climate policy.
Together they unpack the fiscal framework: what it really is, what Parliament actually voted on, and how it links to the controversial VAT proposal. They also examine the impact on social spending — including a potentially vulnerable SASSA grant. Is this a win for the public, or just a reshuffling of the same pressures under a different name? Join the conversation as they cut through the spin and follow the money! The Burning Platform
Where is South Africa headed - and what should you be keeping your eye on? Journalist and political commentator Justice Malala reunites with Phumi Mashigo on Level Up to dissect some of the local and international political happenings. Fom Julius Malema looking “lonely and sad”, why Justice missed Mbeki and what a G20 Summit looks like with or without President Donald Trump… it’s time to level up. The Burning Platform
What went wrong with South Africa’s budget process and does the Democratic Alliance (DA) have a case in their court challenge of Finance Minister Enoch Godongwana’s decision to hike Value Added Tax (VAT)? There has since been varying responses and reactions around this so Phumi tackles this point in our country’s trajectory with Mark Oppenheimer, practicing advocate and member of the Johannesburg Bar, and Kristen Heim, an expert on institutional change in African Legislatures and has been engaged in parliamentary capacity development across the continent since 2008 | Level Up with Phumi Mashigo The Burning Platform
What are the blockages holding SA back? TikTok sensation Darren Campher shares some of his thoughts, as someone who has kept a keen eye on South Africa’s political happenings, making a new generation interested too. More than an interest in politics, he now plays an active role in it: After toying with the idea of joining the EFF, he’s now firmly in the Jacob Zuma-led uMkhontho weSizwe (MK) political party as head of research. In this one-on-one with Phumi Mashigo, he chats about his background, view of the world, and issues plus solutions that within our nation. The Burning Platform
With South Africa in dire need of faster economic growth - what role does the National Economic Development and Labour Council (NEDLAC) play in shaping South Africa’s future? In this episode of Level Up with Phumi Mashigo, Thulani Tshefuta from NEDLAC dives into their work to give some insight. They explore its successes, challenges, and opportunities for improvement in addressing South Africa’s economic issues. The Burning Platform
What are the current priorities of South Africa’s health committee? From the NHI to tabled bills - there’s been a lot of talk, and a big spotlight, on the interaction of politics and health. Dr Kgosi Letlape joins Level Up this week to give his take, as a portfolio committee member for health in Parliament. In this wide-ranging discussion, he touches on funding, the solutions we need to implement… and even what he would change if he was Minister of Health. Let’s Level Up! The Burning Platform
What is really happening at the Stilfontein mines, weeks after the entire nation’s attention was first pulled to the unfolding tragedy as the police, the community and miners were in a standoff? This edition of Level Up interrogates this with Mametlwe Sebei, attorney with the NGO “Lawyers for Human Rights”, to get a deeper understanding of this layered story. In this conversation with Phumi Mashigo, find out the complex circumstances that have led to hundreds of dead bodies being extracted from the mine, hundreds more facing uncertain legal futures and why Sebei implores South Africa to relook at its treatment of miners. The Burning Platform
How do the markets, investors and markets respond to market uncertainty in light of the Budget Speech being postponed on Wed 19 Feb 2025? How did we get to this point?
There’s lots to unpack in this episode of Level Up. Phumi is joined by David Ansara, CEO of the Free Market Foundation, and Kgathatso Tlhakuli, a former public servant with specific experience of state-owned companies oversight, to discuss and debate.
How state funds are used, tax, government’s capabilities, race, and more gets discussed. The Burning Platform
Is Donald Trump bullying South Africa with his executive orders? Or does he just know how to use the soft power of aid money?
Phumi Mashigo chats to renowned academic, analyst and commentator Kofi Kouakou — explaining this and more. Listen to this discussion around aid, soft power, how it works and what it means for you. The Burning Platform
State of the Nation Address with President Cyril Ramaphosa was delivered in just under 90 minutes, in 6773 words he set out his GNU’s blue print for the year ahead but did he inspire the nation or even just today’s guests. Khaya Sithole and Mark Oppenheimer are Leveling up with us On the highlights and lowlights. The Burning Platform
After a decade run as South Africa’s first and longest-running online current affairs show, The Burning Platform is levelling up – Level Up with Phumi Mashigo - under Podcast Party’s Democracy Unplugged umbrella.…as well as live events where you can be part of the audience. Email podcastparty.co.za to reserve your place and add your voice.
In the premiere episode of Level Up, this powerhouse panel unpacks the trends, shifts, and surprises 2025 has in store. Phumi is joined by trends guru Dion Chang, brain and brand expert Timothy Maurice, and political observer Xavier Bapoo to explore how politics, business, and human behavior will shape the year ahead. From global disruptions to South Africa’s evolving political landscape, this episode is your guide to the future. The Burning Platform
Where has the political world made the most progress in 2024? Gareth Cliff and Phumi Mashigo are joined by Burning Platform regular commentators, Jonathan Witt and Kanthan Pillay, for a roundtable discussion on the most uplifting and transformative political stories of 2024, taking a closer look at the key victories that have shaped the year on this final, special edition of the show for the year. The Burning Platform
Is there a woke agenda in schools? And if so, how is it undermining education in South Africa and why should you be worried? Attorney and essayist Richard Wilkinson is fighting hard against the anti-woke school capture he sees playing out in our local landscape. ”School Capture" refers to the woke takeover of South African schools and universities, specifically the growing and toxic influence of Critical Race Theory and Gender Ideology on all aspects of education. This edition of The Burning Platform delves into this topic and unpacks how all that glitters might not always be gold. The Burning Platform
How much money is too much in foreign aid?
First off catching up, Phumi and Gareth chat about some of the highlights that made news in recent times. Moving onto an interview with representative for Kentucky's 4th congressional district, Thomas Massie. He gives his insights on the American elections and what's to come. The Burning Platform
Are the solutions to South Africa's problems political?
The year is winding down and South Africa's problems only seem to be ramping up. From water shortages to illegal miners, it's understandable to not have handle on the latest news. Political commentator and junior lecturer at the Central University of Technology, Leeto Nthoba joins Phumi and Gareth to wade through South Africa's murky political waters. The Burning Platform
How do the US election results affect SA?
Back to regularly scheduled programming, Gareth and Phumi are in the studio and joined by regular contributor Kanthan Pillay. Up for discussion is the recent results of the American elections. Behavioural psychology author and thought leader Timothy Maurice steps in to help make sense of the nuances in current American politis. The Burning Platform
Welcome to this special episode of Burning Platform - in the last two weeks we’ve held two events hosted by Justice Malala and Penuel the Black Pen, with leaders from political parties who accepted the invitation to come and talk about 100 Days of GNU - how are we doing South Africa? What are the burning issues? These are important conversations and we decided it was well-worth including as part of the Burning Platform series. Please join the conversation by leaving your thoughts in the comments section, and make sure you subscribe to Podcast Party Youtube channel - Podcast party SA - so you get notifications and you don’t miss a thing!
And now….100 Days of GNU Part 2 The Burning Platform
Welcome to this special episode of Burning Platform - in the last two weeks we’ve held two events hosted by Justice Malala and Penuel the Black Pen, with leaders from political parties who accepted the invitation to come and talk about 100 Days of GNU - how are we doing South Africa? What are the burning issues? These are important conversations and we decided it was well-worth including as part of the Burning Platform series. Please join the conversation by leaving your thoughts in the comments section, and make sure you subscribe to Podcast Party Youtube channel - Podcast party SA - so you get notifications and you don’t miss a thing!
And now….100 Days of GNU……. The Burning Platform
How is South Africa viewed by the world?
Countries typically have two powers, hard power and soft power. Gareth and Phumi are joined by advocate for a brand-led African revolution and marketer, Thebe Ikalafeng. Looking at the brand that is South Africa and how the world views and interacts with brand South Africa. The Burning Platform
Where are the buoys in the ocean of South African politics?
With more than a 100 days into the GNU, it could be said that South Africa has more questions than answers. To help Gareth and Phumi find the answers is, Associate Professor, School of Governance at the University of the Witwatersrand and founder and Executive Chair of Democracy Works Foundation, Prof. William Gumede. Getting to the bottom of recent political happenings. The Burning Platform
What should we make of the political movements?
The removal of Cilliers Brink has caused quite a few ripples in the political landscape, Mike sham joins the show to give his analysis. Gareth and Phumi would also like to know what’s brewing inside the Democratic Alliance. Mike Sham also discusses whether John Steenhuisen is becoming more of a liability than an asset. The Burning Platform
After 100 days of GNU, are we headed in the right direction?
South African politics has been a hive of activity in recent times, from questionable hiring practices to political floor crossing. Joining Gareth and Phumi to give an insider's view, Chairperson of the Federal Council of the Democratic Alliance, Helen Zille. Getting insight into news headlines is the order of the day. The Burning Platform
Classically-liberal South African YouTuber Sihle Ngobese AKA Big Daddy Liberty takes a hot seat on The Burning Platform to give his take on some of the week's political stories and interrogate whether the Government of National Unity (GNU) is the solution to the issues South Africa currently faces. The Burning Platform
What does America look like after the elections?
With Gareth in Bulgaria, Phumi is joined by Jack Motlanthe as co-host as we turn our attention to the elections in the US. To add some perspective, Associate Editor at the Daily Maverick, J Brooks Spector and Durban based District Prosecutor, Treasure Ntimane. The Burning Platform
What does the future hold for party members who change allegiances?
After recently leaving the party she founded, Colleen Makhubele joins Gareth and Phumi, as well as regular contributor Kanthan Pillay in studio. The shockwaves of her departure from SARA to join the MK can still be felt as South Africans grapple with the ever changing political landscape. The team question Colleen to understand the thinking behind the move and what the future holds. The Burning Platform
What exactly is a political commentator and what qualifies a person to be one?
Gareth and Phumi are joined by a man who wears many hats, who considers himself an 'accidental political commentator' even though he is a lot more than that. Solly Moeng is a renowned outspoken political commentator, columnist, communications and brand strategist. He brings his thoughts and opinions on the political happenings in South Africa. The Burning Platform
What does it mean to be a minister in the GNU?
With the olympics behind us and life settling back to normal, Gareth and Phumi are joined by firebrand minister of sports, arts and culture, Mr Gayton Mckenzie. On the table for discussion is how Mr McKenzie has found his feet after 97 days since the general elections, his ministry and much more, as we get an insider's view on the Government of National Unity. The Burning Platform
Has journalism gone off the rails?
Phumi and Gareth mull over the recent political happenings in South Africa after a busy news week. They are then joined by journalist and founder of Biznews.com, Alec Hogg, as he lends his voice and know how to the sometimes chaotic South African political and financial landscape. The Burning Platform
What options do you have in conflict?
Phumi is back after a two week hiatus and she joins Gareth as they jump into the contentious issues shaping our communities. From the threat of conflict in our cities, beyond the 2021 KZN unrest, to the growing challenges of migration and xenophobia. Conflict resolution specialist and author, Andre Vlok, lends his voice and expertise to the show. The Burning Platform
What should South Africans prioritise for genuine progress?
Gareth Cliff is back in studio and is joined by Penuel Mlotshwa (The Black Pen) to explore the landscape of South Africa's politics. The conversation tackles multiple topics, from the ambitious R3.8 billion project by Solidarity to the crucial steps needed to enhance our Olympic performance. Also up for discussion is what South Africans should prioritise and how we can address the ongoing border crisis. The Burning Platform
How do we deepen our understanding of world politics? With all the news developments taking place in South African politics, Gareth is in studio and joined by opinionated contributors Kanthan Pillay and Jonathon Witt. Deconstructing the often complex world of politics, is what's on the menu. The Burning Platform
Having a hard time making sense of SA's political landscape? In this episode, Mandy Wiener joins Gareth and Phumi to shed light on South Africa's political environment. Through expert analysis and thoughtful commentary, Mandy discusses the key players, policies, and events that are currently shaping the nation's political discourse. The Burning Platform
Where does America go from here after such tumultuous political happenings? A gunman opened fire on former President Donald Trump at a rally in Butler, Pennsylvania… President Joe Biden has more flubs on-stage… the Republican National Convention is currently underway with many developments… and the list goes on! The Guardian's Washington DC bureau chief, David Smith, joins Gareth and Phumi to weigh in, live and on-the-ground in the US. The Burning Platform
So South Africa, what lies ahead? To help answer this question and more, Gareth and Phumi are joined by political strategist, pollster, and commentator, Gareth van Onselen. They discuss the potential political, social, and economic impacts and what this historic shift means for the future of the nation. The Burning Platform
It's been a big week in South African and international politics! Gareth and Phumi talk about the Cabinet announcements and the latest coming out of GNU with political observer Xavier Bapoo: and then Co-Founder and Executive Director of The Henry Jackson Society, Alan Mendoza, joins us live from London to give key insights on the UK's election, what's happening in Europe and how the world views South Africa at this time. The Burning Platform
What does the future hold? Gareth and Phumi are joined by the ever insightful contributor Kanthan Pillay as they talk to futurist ,economist and business trends analyst Bronwyn Williams of Flux Trends. Let's take a look at the future. The Burning Platform
Is South Africa ready for a political remix? Phumi is back to join Gareth for another episode of the Burning Platform. They are joined by Gabriel Crouse from IRR (Institute of Race Relations) and David Ansara from FMF(Free Market Foundation), to discuss South Africa's new dispensation. The Burning Platform
With Phumi unfortunately out sick, Gareth is joined contributor Kanthan Pillay. They have a chat with South Africa's Shadow Minister of Justice, Glynnis Breytenbach. This episode offers a deep dive into the political landscape and potential reforms that could shape South Africa's future. The Burning Platform
With the official announcement of this year's election results having been made public, the country now faces the uncharted territory of the possibility of coalition government. Gareth and Phumi are joined by economist and political analyst, Moeletsi Mbeki to help navigate these choppy political waters. The Burning Platform
Join Gareth Cliff and Phumi Mashigo a day after the elections for a 2- special edition of the Burning Platform. First - Phumi reports back on her fact-finding trip to Israel last week and chats to David Benjamin - consultant on international law, the law of armed conflict and counter-terrorism. Then as the results election results start trickling in, Kanthan Pillay joined the conversation #VotingDay with comments from Jack Motlanthe and Bafana Modise who were on the ground in their respective areas. The Burning Platform
A week away from this year's election, we bring you a special edition of the Burning Platform with two guests who can help to make the numbers make sense for us.
Wayne Sussman - an independent elections analyst, known as ‘the Elections Geek’, and we spoke to him not so long ago on Democracy 101 and The Burning Platform.
Dawie Scholtz, who is joining us from Dubai, is also an independent elections analyst, who produces election results projections and detailed results analysis. The Burning Platform
How serious should we take independent candidates? Do they even stand a real chance of making it into parliament? Gareth and Phumi dig into to the realities faced by independent candidates in the lead to this year's elections. Joining them for a quick chat is Anele Mda, she expands on the discussion as from her vantage point as someone who is running as an independent candidate. The Burning Platform
“The Burning Platform” has been the long-time flagship current affairs feature on “The Gareth Cliff Show,” hosted by Gareth Cliff and Phumi Mashigo, and we’re proud to announce that it has now graduated to be a stand-alone podcast. As we reset with the new series exclusive to Podcast Party, regular contributor Kanthan Pillay joins Gareth and Phumi to reflect on the journey thus far and assess where we’re at as a country as we head towards the election later this month. The Burning Platform will continue to tackle the big news stories of the week and dissect current and global trends. The Burning Platform
How well is the governing party holding up? In the first edition of the Burning Platform for the month of May, Gareth and Phumi are joined by ANC spokesperson, Lesego Makhubela. The three of them go back and forth about the governing parties flaws and strengths ahead of this year's elections. The Burning Platform
Is the dream of one South Africa a foolish one? Leader of Build One South Africa (BOSA), Mmusi Maimane joins Gareth and Phumi for an in-studio conversation. They take a look at Mmusi's political history, and delve into the ideas he has for the country moving forward. Phumi also grills Mmusi on coalitions... will they work? The Burning Platform
What is the job of a good opposition party? Gareth and Phumi are joined by Democratic Alliance leader, John Steenhuisen. They discuss the identity of the party, and the hot button issue of coalition governments. John also dispels a few misconceptions about the DA. Powered by Podcast Party. The Burning Platform
Dr Pieter Groenewald from the Freedom Front Plus joins the team to chat about the Multi-Party Charter, their manifesto to rebuild South Africa, and eating an elephant… one bite at a time. The Burning Platform
Mkhuleko Hlengwa from the IFP joins Gareth, Kanthan and Phumi on the Burning Platform this week. A ‘new normal’ is on the cards for the IFP, as they look to take a few areas from the country’s top dogs. Mkhuleko also shares his thoughts on the Multi-Party Charter. The Burning Platform
GOOD Secretary-General, Brett Herron speaks on the potential economic reform, if elected. Kanthan grills him on GOOD’s justice pillars, and their plan for jobs. The conversation gets heated when the Green Economy comes up. The Burning Platform
UDM Leader Bantu Holomisa joins the Burning Platform to outline the manifesto for his party. Bantu also speaks on the role the state has to play in bettering the lives of South Africans. Gareth and Kanthan question Bantu on the potential for a coalition government, and how that could impact the country. The Burning Platform
Leader of the ACDP, Rev. Kenneth Meshoe joins the show to discuss his manifesto. Phumi questions Kenneth on his ability to still lead the party, after being its leader since its inception. And Kenneth lays down his vision for a “successful, prosperous South African future”. The Burning Platform
ActionSA leader, Herman Mashaba is on the Burning Platform today to lay down his manifesto for a “better South Africa” under his party. Things get heated when Kanthan and Phumi question him about coalition politics, and involvement from the DA. And Gareth asks how Herman plans to deal with foreigners and immigrants coming into South Africa. The Burning Platform
Executive President of SARA, Colleen Makhubele sits down with Gareth Cliff and Phumi Mashigo ahead of the 2024 National Elections. Colleen addresses her COPE termination, outlines her impact as the Speaker of Johannesburg, and lays down her vision for a better South Africa in SARA’s eyes. The Burning Platform
Roger Jardine joins Gareth Cliff, Phumi Mashigo, and Kanthan Pillay this week. Together they touch on the controversial NHI bill, why the Tintswalos of South Africa should vote, and the importance of youth in elections and politics. Roger lays down some of his manifesto for his party, Change Starts Now. The Burning Platform
Neil De Beer of the UIM (United Independent Movement) steps in the ring with Gareth and Phumi to have his say about the upcoming elections. We get some inside info from Neil, coming from an intelligence background - as well as being an advisor to President Nelson Mandela. Neil also launches his manifesto live on the show. And what are you expecting from the SONA this evening? The Burning Platform
Gayton McKenzie has been making headlines in recent weeks, after taking some border issues and foreign policy into his own hands. He joins Gareth and Phumi to discuss the future of South Africa. They touch on Gayton’s ideologies of what South Africa could be if managed correctly by the right people, the PA’s new manifesto, as well as his stance on the Israel-Palestine conflict, the land issue, and equal race treatment. The Burning Platform
Kanthan Pillay joins Gareth Cliff and Phumi Mashigo this week. Gareth kicks off with a conspiracy theory sent in a from a listener regarding the MK Party and the ANC... but is Phumi buying into it? They dive into American and African politics - specifically, which African Leader was the best in office over the years, as well as touching on SA's upcoming national election, and which party has grabbed the attention of the public. The Burning Platform
Kanthan Pillay and Koketso Resane join Gareth Cliff and Phumi Mashigo for a lengthy discussion about some recent events in SA politics. The lengthy ballot paper holding a record amount of parties in South African history, the ANC’s statement regarding the Western Cape, and former Israeli ambassador to South Africa, Arthur Lenk joins in live from Israel to give us a status update on the ground, and answer some questions from the team. The Burning Platform
Advocate Mark Oppenheimer joins Gareth Cliff to discuss South Africa’s genocide case against Israel at the International Court of Justice. WARNING: Disturbing content.
NOTE: Adv. Mark Oppenheimer incorrectly makes reference to India instead of Pakistan in this interview - apologies for the error. The Burning Platform
Gareth and Phumi are joined by Roman Cabanac of Morning Shot for the first Burning Platform of 2024. Roman has a very strong set of opinions about South Africa’s leadership, and why it is still the best country to live in. Together the team break down the unprotected borders issue, Jacob Zuma and the MK Party, Cape independence, and South Africa’s case at the ICJ later today. The Burning Platform
Gareth and Phumi are joined by Adil Nchabeleng, an energy expert and former corporate finance buff, to discuss South Africa’s grid woes - as well as the current state of government. Is South Africa a ticking time bomb of an Arab Spring… or will 2024 bring enough change to create stability in our country? The Burning Platform
Phumlani Majozi joins the show to discuss some of the ideas from his new book. He emphasizes the need to eject the ANC from power in order to restore South Africa, acknowledging the previous leaders of the past. Phumlani also gets into the idea of a multi-party solution, and the plan moving forward. The Burning Platform
Kanthan Pillay launches his new book, 'How to Fix South Africa: An Owner's Manual' with a live audience at a special CliffCentral event. Along with Gareth Cliff and Phumi Mashigo, he touches on social grants, taxation, the NHI and more. The Burning Platform
Where do SA political parties get their funding, and how is South Africa’s judicial system suffering with backdated dockets that aren’t being solved? Marecia Damons and Daniel Steyn, both award-winning journalists at GroundUp, have put out a new book breaking down the Thabo Bester story, as they were the first to break the story of him faking his death. The Burning Platform
Chris Pappas is the Premier candidate on the DA’s list for KZN next year. Doing an already excellent job in the uMngeni local municipality, could premiership soon be a reality for Mr Pappas? Gareth and Phumi do a deep dive with Chris on the current state of government, his vision for KZN, and how people can change their futures by voting. The Burning Platform
Solly Moeng is frustrated with the state of South African politics and is calling on all citizens to take control. Phumi notices a lack of will to win in the elections, and Gareth fires back with some ideas for corrupt politicians. The Burning Platform
Eliav Belotsercovsky - the Israeli Ambassador of South Africa - joins the team to discuss the current situation in Israel, the ignorance of South African media, as well as the dispute of the international communications with South Africa in future. The Burning Platform
Jasmine Opperman is qualified as a risk analyst and has major experience in South African and international intelligence. She discusses the larger picture of possible threats in Southern Africa, before getting into the Israel-Hamas conflict. The Burning Platform
Ivor Chipkin is the Co-Founder and Director of the New South Institute. He joins Gareth and Phumi this week to discuss the Public Service Amendment Bill, government reform, questioning politicians and more. The Burning Platform
Leeto Nthoba breaks down mining unions and the current ‘hostage situation’ at the GoldOne mine. Bakh’abantu plays devil’s advocate about business and the economy, while Phumi asks what political parties have to do to the bring the youth to the ballot boxes. The Burning Platform
Bafana Modise and Kanthan Pillay join the panel and conversation gets heated after Kanthan has some strong opinions on the conflict from both sides. Bafana emphasises the argument government makes about supporting an anti-apartheid state, and Phumi believes the ANC is using this conflict as a distraction. The Burning Platform
In the beginning of South Africa’s democracy era, a world of vigilantism and dark organised crime was a real problem in the Western Cape. Mark Shaw - Director of the Global Initiative Against Transnational Organized Crime - tells his story about being part of this team in the early 2000s, as well as the state of policing in South Africa... particularly in the Western Cape. Ian Cameron, Director of Community Safety at Action Society, stops by to report back on his apology from Bheki Cele, as well as sharing his experience working with organised crime units and police in the Western Cape. The Burning Platform
Leon Louw - a policy expert, author and speaker - joins the panel to discuss land and property ownership, and the unlawful woes that have carried over the last few generations. Phumi implodes after hearing about the Woolworths CEO’s profit margin, and Kanthan struggles to see the DA’s vision, launching Chris Pappas as the premier candidate for KZN. Gareth gets into some international news. The Burning Platform
In a crucial time when water (a basic amenity) is not being provided properly, we have to question why and what are the potential outcomes. Prominent hydrologist and environmental scientist, Prof. Anthony Turton, has some words about our current water and filtration system - and the lack of maintenance by the government. Gareth, Phumi, and Kanthan also get into some local and global headlines, including the name change of the most hated road in Johannesburg. The Burning Platform
Dear South Africa founder, Rob Hutchinson joins the team to discuss the latest coming out of the Road Accident Fund, Pravin Gordhan’s new state-owned company, and the saga of the fake Dear SA scammer call centre. The Burning Platform
Uncover the complexities of Tshwane's municipal workers’ strike, corruption issues, coalition dynamics, and the city's future with Mayor Cilliers Brink, as he joins Gareth and Phumi this week. The Burning Platform
The South African delegation recently visited Zim President, Emmerson Mnangagwa, after his re-election. A concerned Pan-Africanist, professional speaker, leadership expert, author and entrepreneur, Godfrey Madanhire, jumps on to give his perspective on Zimbabwe’s recent election, their BRICS request, and lots more on African and global politics. The Burning Platform
Prof. JJ Tabane is in the house… ranting about how nothing is being done to hold politicians accountable. The Burning Platform heats up with talks of the moonshot pact, the electoral act, and the impact of BRICS on our national interest. The Burning Platform
Col. Chris Wyatt is in town for the BRICS Summit and is reflecting on the partnership from a US standpoint. Kanthan Pillay shares thoughts on South Africa's impact on the BRICS building blocks, while Gareth and Phumi chime in on the US debate. The Burning Platform
Gareth Cliff, Phumi Mashigo, and Kanthan Pillay are delighted to host the FF+ for the first time on The Burning Platform. Chief Whip, Dr Corne Mulder, sets the record straight on the FF+’s vision - as both an independent party and coalition partner. We also hear the latest coming out of the ‘Multi-Party Charter for South Africa’. The Burning Platform
Anthea Jeffery has been looking into unemployment, infrastructure, EWC and the mining sector in her latest book, Countdown to Socialism. And Cape Town mayor Geordin Hill-Lewis updates us on the latest coming out of the taxi strikes. The Burning Platform
Cape Town mayor, Geordin Hill-Lewis gives Gareth Cliff an update on the latest happenings with SANTACO. The Burning Platform
Bakh’abantu has some bullets in his chamber, having been fired up after the EFF’s 10-year celebration. Ebrahim Harvey - former Cosatu trade unionist, and current political writer, analyst, and commentator - warns us not to rule Malema out just yet, after an impressive decade-long run in the South African political arena. The Burning Platform
The state of mining in South Africa has become questionable after recent discoveries of illegal mining throughout the country. Should this be legalised and taxed, or should SA continue to ban it? Bakh’abantu joins the panel to tackle the SABC, Malema’s EFF’s 10-year anniversary speech, and the ANC. The Burning Platform
Mighti Jamie and the EFF’s Ntokozo Hlonyana join this week’s show to discuss the EFF’s 10-year anniversary. What are the party’s plans for the country, should they be successful in the next election? Plus their stance on EWC, nationalization, and more.
NB: Unfortunately the internet went down for a few minutes during the show, and some of the discussion was not recorded - apologies for the frustration! The Burning Platform
The team delves into the state of literacy in the country, government plots and how to deal with blue light brigades. Phumi and Kanthan get into a heated debate about mining and the economy. The Burning Platform
The Burning Platform kicks off with Phumzile Mgcina, the newly elected Deputy President of the ANC Youth League, telling us about their new leadership and plans for the future. Gareth, Phumi and Kanthan get into the riots in France, as well as education equality.
Dumo Denga is today’s featured guest, alongside Gareth Cliff and Phumi Mashigo. Together the team do a deep dive into some current affairs, that include race-based water licensing, a haunting NHI update from Dumo’s perspective, and Gareth’s take on the Deputy President, Paul Mashatile, after receiving an email from someone wanting to defend him.
Paul Holden - an author with over 15 years experience in exposing corruption, with five bestselling books on South African and global politics - joins Phumi and Rams Mabote to talk about his new book, ‘Zondo at your Fingertips’. The team do a deep dive into the current state of the Zondo Commission, possible outcomes and speed bumps in the way at present. Phumi picks Rams’ brain for his perspective.
Dr Jonathan Witt joins Gareth Cliff and Kanthan Pillay to discuss the latest bill passed by the ANC government, regarding National Health Insurance (NHI) in South Africa, putting private health and medical aids at risk of collapsing to State level. Councillor Belinda Kayser-Echeozonjoku from the DA then joins to discuss the R81b budget for the City of Joburg.
Leeto Nthoba updates the team on Witbank's water struggle, triggering a debate on water rights in South Africa, and the need for new voices in the political space. Plus, as we ponder the future of universities, Leeto shares some powerful words: "We are the surgical knives that cut out the cancer." The Burning Platform
Justice Malala, founder of The Burning Platform, is visiting South Africa with his new book titled, ‘The Plot to Save South Africa’. Gareth Cliff sits down with him to discuss some history about the Chris Hani era, both before and after his assassination - as well as some of South Africa’s current issues and possible solutions to get the country back to where it needs to be.
South African writer and scholar Jonny Steinberg joins the show to talk about his new book on the relationship between Nelson and Winnie Mandela. Gareth, Phumi, and Kanthan comment on Jonny’s findings… and also bring up the latest scandals of the week, including Fikile Mbalula, Julius Malema, and Herman Mashaba.
Phumlani Majozi steps up onto the Burning Platform alongside Gareth Cliff, Phumi Mashigo, and Kanthan Pillay to tackle a number of topics impacting South Africa today. BEE is on the chopping block, along with South Africa's power crisis and the recent Russian arms deal the country has been embroiled in, among other issues.
The Burning Platform is joined by another representative of the ruling party. Nontembeko Boyce, Speaker of the KZN Legislature, gets into a conversation with Gareth, Phumi, and Kanthan about the vision that the ANC represents for KZN in the coming years, and why the ANC should still be the party to vote for. Do Kanthan and Phumi buy into this vision? Find out as things get heated!
Controversial YouTuber, author, and podcaster - Penuel, The Black Pen stops by with a full agenda to discuss South African election reform, the broken judicial system, and meritocracy. Phumi is revved up with opinions… while Kanthan and Gareth debate the pros and cons of bribery and corruption within business ownership.
Adv. Glynnis Breytenbach joins Gareth, Phumi and Kanthan for The Burning Platform, after being flavour of the week last week, unleashing her scathing attack on the Minister of Police, Bheki Cele and the board of G4S. The team discuss the future of justice in South Africa and pick Adv. Breytenbach’s brain on her view of prison breaks and the corruption surrounding them.
Kanthan proposes a new ‘conspiracy theory’ surrounding state capture, but do you buy into it? Raf Gangat joins from Jerusalem to discuss international politics - he believes that Israel is an Apartheid state, based on some recent experiences - but does the team agree?
Mmusi Maimane steps onto The Burning Platform to discuss some of his latest antics in the political space. Gareth is curious how BOSA functions in society, while Phumi asks Mmusi if he is not just the ‘stale bread’ politician building another party to try lead South Africa. Kanthan Pillay asks the ‘burning’ question… what is Mmusi’s stance on BEE in South Africa, and how does he define race?
It's a historic moment in American politics, as no former president has ever been indicted. Joel Pollak, Senior Editor-at-Large for Breitbart News, joins The Gareth Cliff Show live to discuss the breaking news and provide insights into how the charges could impact Trump's political future, including his potential 2024 campaign.
Writer and analyst at the Institute of Race Relations, Gabriel Crouse joins The Burning Platform this week to discuss Herman Mashaba's recent dig at the IRR, the Digital Misinformation Conference, as well as the ideal coalition that South Africa should be focusing on.
The Burning Platform is joined by Helen Zille this week. She undergoes some grilling by Kanthan Pillay about the DA’s primary focus on South Africa’s political stage. Helen talks about her upcoming vote for Federal Council Chair, and the party’s vision going forward.
Herman Mashaba joins the Burning Platform to discuss his points of view on the upcoming EFF ‘National Shutdown’ on Monday, and to respond to Julius Malema’s comments after being slammed at the EFF press conference yesterday. Ian Cameron shares his opinions on several topics, including how South Africa is becoming a mafia state, and how the SAPS have been captured in the process.
Kanthan Pillay is itching to talk about the cabinet reshuffle. Ivo Vegter joins to throw in his 2 cents on the matter - slamming Cyril Ramaphosa as ‘Our feckless president and his bloated, self-serving cabinet’ in his latest article. Phumi talks about the business of politicking in South Africa, and how coalitions won’t work because of their lack of skill in this area.
The acting Tax Ombudsman, Prof Thabo Legwaila, takes us through his duties and answers some burning questions on behalf of taxpayers, including rights and obligations, as well as what to expect during tax season. Mighti Jamie then joins the conversation to talk about the cabinet reshuffle.
Is ESG an ideological scam? Jonathan Witt and Kanthan Pillay discuss the pros and cons of energy development in South Africa. Kanthan wants to dissect the budget speech, which revealed how much money South Africa loses each day due to interest on debt. Phumi is curious about what the team thinks of Putin’s speech, after seeing Biden join Zelensky in the Ukraine.
Dr Greg Mills, who heads the Johannesburg-based Brenthurst Foundation, joins the show this week. Gareth and Phumi open up the conversation about coalitions in South Africa, Greg’s latest book - ‘Better Choices: Ensuring South Africa’s Future’, as well as touching on the Russia / Ukraine / South Africa debacle.
Kanthan Pillay and Joel Pollak join Gareth and Phumi to tackle the many subjects regarding the US SONA, as well as the upcoming South Africa SONA with Cyril Ramaphosa tonight. Did Joe Biden’s speech have any merit this time, and what is the DA doing wrong for the upcoming elections in 2024? Joel Pollak is also promoting his new book, which he’s launching tonight with Gareth Cliff at Exclusive Books in Rosebank. If you’re not staying home to watch the SONA, join them!
Solly Moeng joins the show to discuss some of the major roadblocks in South Africa right now… the new mayor of Joburg representing Palestine in a viral press interview, the EFF endorsing land grabbing in SA with no real judicial system in place, and how the DA has proven itself with two major municipalities - but is still consistently under fire from the ANC.
Gareth and Phumi are joined by Phumlani Majozi as this week’s guest to talk about the recent political happenings in South Africa, including the march to Luthuli House with the DA, as well as Cyril catching a visit from US Treasury Secretary, Janet Yellen. Has he taken it too far this time? We have a new Deputy President… can you guess who it is?
Eskom’s energy crisis is something we cannot escape as South Africans. Vally Padayachee, ex Eskom and City Power Executive Management, joins to answer some burning questions. Is privatising Eskom the solution? Is wind and solar power the way forward for South Africa, and where has the money disappeared to?
A request was made for Kanthan Pillay to comment on the latest coming out of the US regarding Kevin McCarthy. Leeto Nthoba discusses the downfall of the ANC, and sparks a debate about whether South Africa was better under the Zuma or Ramaphosa. And JJ Cornish shares some good news coming out of Zimbabwe and Somalia.
What do the youth of South Africa really care about in terms of politics? Phumi and Mash discuss what the outcomes from the ANC National Conference really mean. Plus, a look back at some of the best moments from The Burning Platform 2022.
Eskom CEO Andre de Ruyter’s resignation is the big topic of the day, along with the ANC’s downfall in numbers, and the diamond in the rough of 2022. Serbia has made headlines for not sanctioning Russia, which opens up a conversation about leadership of all the Arabic states.
According to Phumi, it’s going to get worse before it gets better! Magda Wierzycka is a Polish-South African businesswoman, and she joins the show to discuss the general state of South Africa, Eskom and possible electricity alternatives, water shortages, and what happens when the ANC is out?
Veteran journalist, filmmaker, and author Jacques Pauw joins Gareth, Phumi and Kanthan Pillay to unpack his latest book - Our Poisoned Land. They have a candid conversation about the deceit, corruption and incompetence that we have witnessed over the years from our government.
Head of Policy and Research at the Rivonia Circle, Lukhona Mnguni joins the show to talk about the work he is currently up to, and to shed light on some of the pressing issues that various communities face, comments on the ANC ‘ecosystem’, and thoughts on President Cyril Ramaphosa’s UK visit.
The team discuss Trump’s announcement of running for office again in 2024. The debate then heats up as Ashley Sauls I - the Patriotic Alliance’s Premier Candidate for Gauteng and Former MMC for Health, Social Development, and Transport - joins to talk about coalition party antics, the work done so far, and much more!
Researcher, analyst and commentator Mighti Jamie joins the show this week to unpack coalition governments, COP27, and South Africa being used as a pilot for green energy transition. The team also speaks to Brooks Spector - a former US diplomat - about the US midterm election results.
Mayor Mpho Phalatse and Kanthan Pillay join Gareth and Phumi live in the studio to discuss the recent events surrounding the vote of no confidence. Mpho also answers question about coalitions, voter apathy, future plans for the city, and the role of a mayor.
This week the team is joined by SA journalist, author and news editor Ferial Haffajee, to unpack her new book - Days of Zondo. They look at the moments that took everyone by surprise, and more. Dr Alan Mendoza joins to talk about what is currently happening in UK politics, and gives his prediction about England in the World Cup.
Kanthan Pillay joins the team to discuss both local and international political issues including the consequences of breaking a coalition, defining a good system of governance, and the downstream effects of current US politics. The Republican divide is brought to the forefront of the conversation, before diving deeper into the Ukraine/Russia saga.
Moeletsi Mbeki joins Phumi Mashigo to unpack a number of topics that include South Africa having a massive stunting growth problem, our leaders lack of care, whether or not the DA is a white party, and what ordinary South Africans can do to make a change.
Wayne Sussman is an independent election analyst, known as 'the Elections Geek' and he joins the team to unpack Joburg’s coalition government debacle, Mpho Phalatse’s Twitter thread, elections in South Africa, and voter apathy.
Senior fellow at African Liberty, Phumlani Majozi joins Gareth and Phumi to unpack the latest political news. Is the DA positioning itself as a leading party, or will it always just be seen as the opposition? Was the economy in better shape during the Zuma era? Plus a discussion on the young, skilled South Africans leaving the country for greener pastures.
After going viral the first time with a video about loving his country, Rob Hersov has done it again - this time telling the ANC to "voetsek"! He joins the team to about his recent rant, his thoughts and opinions on bringing change in South Africa, and Cyril being a disgrace.
How do migrants contribute to SA’s economy? What is most often misunderstood about Operation Dudula? Dan Radebe (Deputy Chairperson of Operation Dudula) and Patrick Sewera (co-founder of The Black Africa Fund) join the show to unpack some of these questions and issues.
Is chasing rabbits in an economy like South Africa’s detrimental to society? Should Ernst Roets appeal the current verdict of the hate speech case involving a notorious struggle song? And are coalitions a positive for the country going forward?
Political analyst and columnist, Mpumelelo Mkhabela, talks about his new book ‘The Enemy Within’, which covers the corruption within the ANC, leadership struggles, political insurance, and much more! Dada Morero from the ANC is in the hot seat… and Kanthan Pillay gets in on the action, alongside Gareth and Phumi.
Is there any incentive to become a whistleblower? Lukhanyo Calata, Solly Moeng, and Athol Williams unpack the reality of being a whistleblower in South Africa. They share their personal experiences of the consequences of doing the ‘right thing’.
Dr Gerard Labuschagne and Gideon Joubert join the show to discuss crime and violence in South Africa. They look at the tavern shootings, kidnappings, personal security, and the state of policing in general. Plus, some tips on how to improve your personal safety.
Nicole Fritz is the executive director of The Helen Suzman Foundation and she joins the team to unpack some of the latest political news that includes the basic income grant, public protector impeachment process, the Zimbabwe exemption permit termination, and our legal challenges.
Libertarian and founder of the ManPatria Podcast, Dumo Denga joins the show to have a candid discussion about the latest political news. The team delves into an ANC conspiracy theory, wealth tax, and Europe experiencing massive power issues.
Business news anchor at the SABC, Nastassia Arendse, and analyst, Mighti Jamie, join the show to discuss why governments keep increasing interest rates, the impact of inflation on the average Joe, and innovative policies that need to be considered in order to stimulate economic growth.
This week the team is joined by the Deputy CEO of AfriForum, Ernst Roets, to unpack what Afriforum does and stands for. They also discuss the decline of America, the alarmingly high unemployment rate in South Africa, and the outrageous violence that South Africans are experiencing.
Ian Cameron wasn’t told to “shut up” or “get out”! He and Kanthan Pillay join the team to talk about the work that Action Society does, the ground level realities of violent crime in South Africa, and more.
Leeto Nthoba joins the team to unpack the latest political issues, including governance in South Africa, politicians having a saviour complex, the Enyobeni saga and more.
Barry Bateman is a journalist who really needs no introduction, having worked at EWN and eNCA - he is now Afriforum’s Private Prosecution Unit communications manager. He joins the show to talk about the WaterKloof Air Force Base landing story (which he broke), the state of Eskom, Afriforum’s border watch and more.
Award-winning journalist Karyn Maughan joins the show to talk about her new book ‘Nuclear - Inside South Africa's Secret Deal’, the state capture report and judge President John Hlophe’s pending impeachment.
Lethiwe Sinodumo Nkosi from Youth Capital, and digital marketing entrepreneur, Zimasa Vabaza, engage in a discussion about the matters that plague the youth of South Africa - from unemployment and work ethics, to making job-seeking affordable, the township economy, and more.
South Africa has 60,000 new millionaires! President Ramaphosa hires a well-known PR guy as his new spokesperson… is he getting ready for a charm offensive? Solly Moeng joins the team to discuss all this and more.
Joining the team this week is Mighti Jamie, who is a multi-award-winning international Debating and Public Speaking champion. They have a candid conversation about Africa Day, using it as a time to reflect and plan the next 90 years. They then delve into the mass shootings in America, and how gun control could relate to South Africa.
Reyno De Beer, President of the Liberty Fighters Network, joins the team to engage on some of the issues that currently plague South Africans - from the state of disaster to the new health regulations and the R22m flag that is to be built.
Alex Weiss (content coordinator at the Freedom Advocacy Network) and Phumlani Majozi (Senior fellow at African Liberty) join the team to discuss the latest politics and news - including the increase in the cost of living, and South Africa's skills mismatch.
Kanthan Pillay joins the team to discuss Mandisa Maya possibly becoming the next Deputy Chief Justice. He also weighs in on Ukraine and the impact of the Russian invasion. Could Roe v Wade be a pivotal issue the Democrats can run on in the next elections?
Dumo Denga shares some of his thoughts on the recent purchase of Twitter by Elon Musk, the SCOPA fallout, and the ANC NEC suspending the Women's League. Justin Plaatjes is a 31-year-old qualified CA (SA) who works in investment banking, and he joins the team to talk about his contribution to a book called ‘This Generation Leads: The Latest Leadership Ideas from South Africa’.
Ian Scher is the CEO of Rescue South Africa, and he joins the team to talk about the KZN floods and what has made this current flooding so much worse than previous years. Wayne Duvenage later joins to talk about the work OUTA has done over the past few years, and the potential for looting of the KZN relief funds… how can the government ‘prove’ they are trustworthy with their shocking track record?
Ivo Vegter joins the team this week as they have a candid conversation about Zuma, and the figureheads of fractionalisation within the ANC. Can coalitions topple the party? They also delve into the Digital Vibes scandal regarding Zweli Mkhize’s absolution by the ethics committee, and how it just doesn't make sense. And who is behind the Amazon HQ development in Cape Town?
Gabriel Crouse and Leeto Nthoba make a return to The Burning Platform. The team looks at the end of the state of disaster and the effectiveness of lockdown, regulations put in place by Nkosazana Dlamini Zuma, and how politicians are treated differently when they commit crimes. Gabriel also shares his thoughts and a first-hand account of his experience in Rwanda.
In this edition of The Burning Platform, Muzi Kuzwayo joins us to talk about the true meaning of sacrifice, why South Africans don’t go out and vote, and why it’s important to not fall victim to the “me me me” mentality, but to rather give back and help others.
Phumi and Leeto are joined by Khaya Sithole. They have an in-depth conversation about the emigration problem (and not just in a South African context), the Russia - Ukraine crisis, the education system, and how Khaya has helped shape the lives of many.
Phumi gets a live report directly from Peter Strydom, who is currently in Tokyo, Japan. They have a discussion about living abroad, what sets Japan apart from South Africa, Japan's stand on the Russia and Ukraine war... and if you think our corruption is bad - wait until you hear about the kind of government corruption over there!
Solly Moeng joins Gareth and Phumi to discuss the role the government played in failing to regulate the illegal immigration problem that is facing South Africa. They also look at the ANC’s structure, whether it is a dying organisation, or simply a corpse... and Gareth wants to know when we should start building bomb shelters.
It’s been a while, but our returning champ Mighti Jamie is back! Phil Craig, an advocate for Cape Independence, also joins the team to give us an update on the movement, and he answers some of Phumi's tough questions around the numbers. They also weigh in on the invasion of Ukraine, the UN, and South Africa's stance on the whole saga.
Our favourite 'go to' person for all things financial - Anthea Gardner joins The Burning Platform to help us dissect the budget speech, and Leeto Nthoba brings up the issue of the commodification of white fear and black historic pain.
Phumlani Majozi and Giulietta Talevi join the team to have a discussion about the bankruptcy of ideas in government, how taxing the population and social grants are not sustainable, and how government spending on salaries is out of control.
Chris Yelland is an energy analyst and Koketso Resane is a conservative social commentator, and co-host on the libertarian ManPatria Podcast. They have a candid conversation about load shedding coming back, expectations for SONA 2022, and whether or not Joe Rogan did the right thing by apologising.
Gareth and Phumi are joined by Assistant Editor for Breaking News at News24, Sheldon Morais, and the new CEO of the Institute of Race Relations (IRR), John Endres. They have a heated discussion about the State Capture report, the global inflation and interest rate environment, and Cyril Ramphosa being a mediocre president.
Do you know what the average take-home pay is? JJ Cornish, our expert on all things African, joins the team to have a candid conversation about the South African economy, increase of taxes, the Mozambique situation and more.
Gabriel Crouse - writer and analyst at the Institute of Race Relations, as well as a regular co-host on The Daily Friend podcast - joins the team to unpack the latest political news, including the State Capture report, the disintegration of coalitions, and how Julius Malema conducts himself as a domestic terrorist.
Two returning champs launch The Burning Platform for 2022! Dumo Denga - a Libertarian and host of the ManPatria podcast, and Dr Jonathan Witt - a doctor with strong opinions. They discuss Zandile Mafe being a possible scapegoat, Lindiwe Sisulu, the State Capture report, and whether the end of the pandemic is in sight.
Kanthan Pillay and Solly Moeng both join the final episode of The Burning Platform. They recap of some of the biggest stories of 2021, including local government election results, lockdown, Shell’s planned seismic survey, and more.
What is the cost of telling the truth in the face of overwhelming pressure? Poet, philosopher and author of 'Deep Collusion: Bain and the Capture of South Africa', Athol Williams is the State Capture whistleblower who testified about massive corruption allegations and had to flee the country in fear of his life. Gareth Cliff speaks to him about his fascinating story.
Newly appointed Mayor of Joburg, Dr Mpho Phalatse from the DA, joins the team to have an open discussion about her being the first female mayor of the city, coalitions, what will be prioritised, crime, and what the future of Joburg looks like.
The team gets an update from JJ Cornish about what’s currently happening around Africa. Kaveel Singh and Jeff Wicks - co-authors of Eight Days in July: Inside the Zuma unrest that set South Africa alight - unpack the looting and violence that took place earlier this year.
The team is joined by Prof Bonang Mohale and friend to the show Phumlani Majozi, as they talk about the recent political news which includes coalitions of parties, the anticipated Covid-19 fourth wave, the decline of the ANC and what it means for South Africa.
Rorisang Tshabalala and Sara Gon join the team to speak about loadshedding, local government coalitions, the reaction to FW de Klerk’s death, the Miss SA Israel debacle and more.
Leeto Nthoba - who is no stranger to the show - shares some horrific stories from Welkom that leave Phumi and Gareth wondering what the way forward could be. They then get into electricity and the loadshedding mess we are facing.
Siv Ngesi and Dumo Denga join the team to have a candid conversation about the recent local elections that took place. They look at why people didn’t vote, future coalitions that will have to take place, and how the IEC can do better to educate people on how to vote.
We kickstart the show with Kanthan Pillay and Phumi Mashigo sharing their thoughts and opinions on what took place on The Burning Platform last week. The team then has a candid conversation about the upcoming local elections, their predictions, and voicing the importance of getting out and voting!
One South Africa’s national spokeswoman, Mudzuli Rakhivhane, and Federal Leader of the Democratic Alliance, John Steenhuisen, join Gareth to share their thoughts on coalitions, how we should vote in the upcoming local elections, and their stance on racial issues in the country. Nando's
Dr Makhosi Khosa (ActionSA’s eThekwini mayoral candidate), alongside Colleen Makhubele (COPE’s Johannesburg mayoral candidate), join the team to elaborate on why we should vote for them, if coalitions are an option for them, and the current state of South Africa. Nando's
Leeto Nthoba shares some wild Welkom election campaigning stories, and Sihle 'Big Daddy Liberty' Ngobese also joins the team to discuss why he believes politicians are trash, election campaigning, Chief Justice nomination and much more! Nando's
Kanthan Pillay and Rob Hersov - a South African entrepreneur and private investor, whose recent video titled 'If Madiba were alive today, he would vote DA' has been getting a lot of attention - join the team to discuss the upcoming election, possible party coalitions and China's mounting debt crisis. Nando's
Ray Hartley joins the team to talk about the upcoming election... what will voters say about the divided ANC? Why are so many young people disinterested in voting? Plus, Zuma and the Constitutional Court, Joe Biden and lots more. Nando's
Dumo Denga - a Libertarian, former member of the Capitalist Party, and host of the ManPatria podcast - joins the team to talk the vaccine passport, local elections and more. They also chat to Paul Jacobson, who is standing as a nominee for Ward 54 Councillor for Sea Point, Camps Bay and Mouille Point in Cape Town. Nando's
Brett Herron and Neil de Beer are both Cape Town mayoral candidates. They join the team to talk about why you should vote for them, their thoughts on Covid vaccinations, and how they are different from their previous parties - the ANC and DA. Nando's
The team - alongside Kanthan Pillay and Lord Peter Hain - talk about Peter’s latest memoir titled A Pretoria Boy: The Story of South Africa’s ‘Public Enemy Number One’, whether Cyril Ramphosa really is better than Jacob Zuma was, Afghanistan and much more! Nando's
What are the City of Joburg’s biggest issues that need fixing, and what are the solutions? Former Mayor of Johannesburg, Herman Mashaba, and the DA’s new mayoral candidate, Dr Mpho Phalatse, join the team to share what they have cooking, and why you should vote for them on this very fiery episode! Nando's
Ivo Vegter and Brooks Spector join the team to voice their opinions about the Taliban takeover, President Joe Biden’s decision to withdraw from Afghanistan, the basic income grant in SA and more. Nando's
Phumlani Majozi - Senior Fellow at African Liberty - joins Gareth to have a candid conversation about the cabinet reshuffle (especially the new Finance Minister), Cyril Ramaphosa at the State Capture commission, proposals for people to withdraw their retirement, the DA's fight against the postponement of local elections and more. Nando's
Is President Cyril Ramaphosa just the least dirty shirt in the laundry pile that is the ANC? Can the families of corrupt politicians stop flaunting their gains on social media? Solly Moeng joins the panel this week to dissect the dog show that is South African politics. Nando's
Kanthan Pillay returns to The Burning Platform this week to answer all your questions. Dr Anthony Turton also joins the team to have a candid conversation about the water crisis in South Africa and a lot more. Nando's
Most small businesses have not received any support or relief funding during the extended lockdown, and the recent looting activities haven’t helped. Economist Mike Schussler and Township Entrepreneur Developer Bulelani Balabala join the team to talk about the state of SA’s economy, and how to potentially save it. Nando's
Dr Jonathan Witt and Leeto Nthoba join the team to analyse the difference between pro Zuma actions and the actions of looters. Plus a look at President Cyril Ramaphosa’s timid response, and why his leadership style makes the situation worse. Nando's
Jacob Zuma turning himself in is the hot topic of the day. What are the implications of this, and can we trust the ANC again? These are just some of the things that the team - alongside Sipho Shezi (published author on politics and international relations) and Mighti Jamie (multi award-winning international debating and public speaking champion and coach) unpack this week. Nando's
With everything that has transpired in the news, the team wonders if Jacob Zuma will really go to jail. They have a candid conversation with Chris Fisher, legal researcher at The Helen Suzman Foundation, about Zuma’s sentencing and what to expect. Gabriel Crouse from the Institute of Race Relations then sheds some light on racism, and how it might not be the problem it’s perceived to be. Nando's
Is there ever a quiet week in politics? Never, right? So if you’ve missed out on some of the buzz, The Burning Platform is here to catch you up on things, with analysis from one of the country’s sharpest minds. Gareth Van Onselen - who is a liberal, a humanist and a published author... but most of all, a political animal with a deep love for ideas, statistics and argument - joins the team this week. Nando's
There’s arguably never been a more important time to look at energy in Africa. In this edition of The Burning Platform, the team speaks to an expert on this matter. NJ Ayuk has spent two decades negotiating African oil and gas deals, and now has a grasp of the continent's energy landscape that few can match. He shares why Africa's fledgling natural gas industry can become an international powerhouse, how the continent can improve its notoriously unreliable, economy-sapping power industry, why American energy companies should stop curtailing their investments in Africa, and why the continent's energy industry needs more women. Nando's
Between abrupt power cuts, press releases that leave us confused and schedules that change by the day... what is Eskom doing and where is it headed? What do you need to know about it? To get to the bottom of this, the team speaks to energy expert and mining consultant Ted Blom, someone who always speaks his mind on this topic. Nando's
According to Phumi, education is a long-term solution, but we need short-term fixes to get the South African economy back on track. Martin van Staden - jurist and author - joins the teams to unpack his approach to public policy from a libertarian perspective. Which are the best performing economies, and what should our government be doing to improve the lives of the unemployed? Nando's
Another week in South African politics that has been anything but quiet. This week, key politicians came under the spotlight with new allegations of corruption. One of those politicians is Health Minister Dr Zweli Mkhize, who has spoken out at a briefing against the controversial multi-million rand communications tender awarded by his department to a company called Digital Vibes. Wayne Duvenage, CEO of the Organisation Undoing Tax Abuse, chats to Gareth about all this and more. Nando's
According to the Institute of Race Relations, Critical Race Theory and race-based policy are at odds with what most South Africans want. The report further provides a robust argument for why, even with the best intentions, BEE as a practical implementation of Critical Race Theory can never work as intended. Where does that put the country today? Writer and analyst Gabriel Crouse joins the team to discuss further. Nando's
The team is joined by Ebrahim Harvey - former Cosatu trade unionist and a political writer, analyst and commentator for over two decades. Ebrahim has written an analysis on the ruling party called The Great Pretenders: Race and Class under ANC Rule. It’s a heated and passionate discussion about the current state of the ANC, trade unions being corrupt, the impact of the 4th industrial revolution and a whole lot more. Nando's
This week the team dives into whether or not we will see a split in the ANC, SARS holding a gun to taxpayers’ heads, the vaccine passport, Donald Trump, and much more. They're joined by Rob Hutchinson, MD of “Dear South Africa”, a civil organisation which facilitates public participation in government policy formation. Nando's
There’s hardly an uneventful day in the South African political landscape with President Ramaphosa appearing at the State Capture inquiry, the ANC and corruption, Ace Magashule’s suspension, and lots more. The team, along with Leeto Nthoba - lecturer at Central University of Technology, debater and socio-political analyst - unpack these and share their views and opinions. Nando's
It’s been a long time coming… Kanthan Pillay returns to The Burning Platform! Together with Gareth and Phumi, he dissects the Zondo commission, likening it to being a reality show. There’s a chat about creative ways of creating jobs, and why Derek Chauvin being found guilty of murdering George Floyd shouldn’t be a big deal. Nando's
The team is joined by libertarian, former member of the Capitalist Party, and host of the ManPatria podcast, Dumo Denga. They take a scorching hot look at what’s happening in the world of politics and discuss land invasion, whether a new leftist party is a possible solution, cabinet reshuffles, cancel culture and more. Nando's
Does politics get in the way of global business opportunities for South Africa? There's a lot that could make you not see the light at the end of the tunnel when it comes to how SA works, but maybe Yaw Peprah - a qualified chartered accountant - will change your view. He chats to Gareth about a number of topics including Mozambique, Mmusi Maimane, the DA and the state of America. Nando's
Commentator on politics, economics and global affairs Phumlani Majozi - Senior fellow at African Liberty joins Gareth and Phumi to have a candid conversation about the current political status of South Africa, if socialism is the answer, government increasing taxes and the high unemployment. Nando's
This week’s guest commentator is Dr Nthabiseng Moleko, a senior lecturer in managerial economics at the University of Stellenbosch Business School. She believes the country needs a lot more decisive and immediate actions to propel inclusive and labour-intensive growth. The team tackles the latest political stories and all of this, as always, is brought to you by Nando’s. Nando's
With a week that was far from quiet, we had to bring in the big guns to unpack some of the hottest political stories in another edition of The Burning Platform. Joining Gareth is lecturer at Central University of Technology, debater and socio-political analyst, Leeto Nthoba... plus, analyst, CEO of the IRR, and director of the Centre for Risk Analysis, Frans Cronje. They tackle student protests, police brutality, Bheki Cele, the trial of George Floyd, unemployment in South Africa, the abuse that taxpayers experience and a whole lot more. Nando's
Head of Strategic Engagement at the IRR, Sara Gon joins the team to share her opposing views with Phumi and Gareth regarding the DA. They define what they consider as mainstream media, have a candid conversation about the shrinkage of the economy, and Eskom implementing stage 2 load-shedding. Nando's
The team - alongside Daniel Silke, who is a political economy analyst, keynote speaker, author and futurist - discuss the recent Budget Speech and have a straightforward conversation about where South Africa stands economically. Nando's
With the recent 2021 fiscal spending plans of the National Budget being unveiled by Finance Minister Tito Mboweni... Gareth, Phumi, and Jamie (lawyer, award-winning debater and political analyst) have a candid conversation about the tax increases, debt to GDP, and our government’s simple-minded approach to solving our current financial issues. Nando's
Racial politics are a hot topic this week as Phumi states that there are too many white men in one particular party. Playing the blame game seems to be second nature when it comes to our politicians. Do we have a toxic relationship when it comes to corporate and government? Herman Pretorius - head of Strategic Initiatives at the IRR - shares his thoughts on the current state of the nation. Nando's
Has Cyril Ramaphosa been a weak leader for the ANC and South Africa at large? What is the big difference between Cyril and Jacob Zuma when it comes to leadership? What is the role of the Zondo Commission within the South African legal landscape? Do South Africans need to worry about the 2021 elections being cancelled? Nando's
Are we taking too long to roll out the COVID-19 vaccine? With a declining economy, how much worse must it get before it gets better? Maybe it’s time to admit that many South Africans might be addicted to the ANC. Leading the conversation this week is Lecturer at the Central University of Technology, debater and socio-political analyst, Leeto "Briggar" Nthoba, and Gabriel Crouse - writer and analyst at the Institute of Race Relations (IRR). Nando's
Biden’s inaugural address was a soulful plea to come together. After being in office for a week he has already overturned Donald Trump’s ban on transgender people serving in the US military, and rejoined the Paris climate agreement... is President Joe Biden better than Trump, or will the honeymoon phase come to an end sooner than expected? The Guardian's Washington DC bureau chief David Smith joins the team to discuss what’s happening in the USA. Nando's
If a mere seven more MPs had voted with Prime Minister JBM Hertzog in favour of neutrality, South Africa's history would have been quite different. Will we see more war under the administration of US President Joe Biden? Nando's
Grave concern in Mozambique, where the impotence of the African Union is compounded by crushing poverty and the actions of Muslim fundamentalists, who are converting vulnerable civilians at the end of a barrel. The team discusses the potential for corruption around the Covid vaccine process in South Africa, and how citizens might end up overpaying, while many may not even get vaccinated. And finally, what will the Biden regime mean for Africa? Nando's
Nick Hudson, co-founder of Pandemics Data and Analytics (PANDA) joins the Burning Platform to discuss what the data suggests about the effectiveness of lockdowns on a cost-to-benefit ratio. There’s a discussion around the media’s role in stoking pandemic panic, before moving on to the subject of a vaccine - its viability given a rapid public uptake after an equally rapid turnaround, and Big Pharma’s push to get a solution to market without it first being peer reviewed. Nando's
As South Africa prepares for the Covid 'second wave', the ruling party has elected to limit access to beaches, potentially crippling the tourism industry. How long will the Garden Route take to recover economically from the current lockdown, and were there any options that would have limited the spread of Covid-19 without shutting down the economy? The team gives us their reasons to be optimistic for 2021. Nando's
As the South African government clamps down on high school students and their celebrations after finishing school, how should we view the admonishment of these gatherings and them being labelled Covid-19 'superspreader' events? The National Pharmaceutical Agency is being floated again - red flag or good news? Nando's
If you are building an organisation which is in public service, should you have to reveal all your funding sources? We have seen the erosion of State institutions over the past 20 years - can the poor survive without functional state apparatus? Is the relationship between unions and the ANC surreptitious? Do South Africans have a viable alternative political party to vote for? Nando's
Is the notion of 16 Days of Activism purely performative, or are South African authorities actually serious about quashing this social ill? How important is it for people to know who pays for a newspaper organisation to be in business? Is Cyril Ramaphosa losing the trust of South Africans across the board? Julius Malema has been exposed for lying about vile abuse - what is the apt punishment for this? Corruption must be high level and sophisticated, or you shouldn't do it... the ANC is being exposed for having no price point for their deals with the devil. Nando's
Is there collusion between the ANC and the corporate world, and should this concern South Africans moving forward? The IRR and SA citizens have been misled by South African banks, which is being revealed as conversations between government and the big banks spill into the public domain. Our government is out of money... what is left for them to extract from the public coffers? Is the Zondo Commission just a perception management exercise? Are there correlations between South Africa's and Venezuela's economic declines - and should we be observing them closely to avoid the same dreadful fate? Nando's
Helen Zille joins the Burning Platform this week to discuss Cyril Ramaphosa's address to South Africa coming out of the global pandemic. The by-election results for the DA were mixed... what was the reason for the strategy adopted for this election period? Is the presence of a multitude of small parties good for democratic stability? Is South Africa being racially divided by political parties for their own ends? Could the Cape secede from South Africa without civil war? Are identity politics the move of the moment, and is this political environment sustainable for South Africa to flourish? Nando's
How is it that in 2020 the US Election can still be shrouded in this much controversy when it comes to vote counting? Is the Democrat voter base reactionary and lazy? Is the USA falling apart, as they seem to be divided right down the middle as a country? Is the media to blame for so-called bad polling? Have the ANC stolen all the money, or are they coming for your retirement fund as well? The Zondo Commission has become a circus and we now need answers... is this just another time waster or is progress being made? Is South Africa finally falling over the fiscal cliff as a country? Nando's
Why did Tito go off script during his Medium Term Budget Speech? Were his comments about Tygerberg Hospital unethical, and how much power does he have in reality? Is SAA a distraction, or simply a failing SOE? It's important to keep an eye on the Zondo Commission so you are better informed for elections. How do we deal with debt and taxes? And the team takes bets on who will win the US election. Nando's
For the umpteenth time, South Africans are having to hear the term "economic restructuring" as part of the recovery plan for the country's economy from the ANC-led government. Are we to trust Cyril Ramaphosa to lead us to the promised land, or should we be sceptical as citizens? Hunter Biden has possibly derailed his father's Presidential campaign... how will this go with only two weeks remaining until the US election? Nando's
As South Africans grapple with the economic carnage of the Covid-19 lockdown, is the ANC going to actually address the Covid-19 relief corruption scandal, or are they just going to be performative political actors? What is Julius Malema's endgame? The EFF and the ANC seem to be in cahoots, should this worry SA citizens? The Pollsters tell us Biden is winning by 10 points currently, should we take this seriously? How warped is the media messaging around the US election? Nando's
The Senekal protests have brought to light the issue of farmers and farmworkers being murdered. Is the matter a racial issue, or a political tool to sow division within the South African populus? Is legal land restitution possible if administered correctly by the South African government? Is violence necessary for economic emancipation? Could the VBS case be unravelling, and will this lead to major arrests and corruption being curbed in South Africa? Nando's
How does one collate data when the governments of the world are hellbent on lockdowns as the only solution to solving a global pandemic? Has the gathering of data been transparent globally? Is the function of WHO to scare people so that they change their behaviour? How will Sweden be judged by history for not locking down? Social media can help or hinder progress... how should we navigate those waters? Nando's
South Africa is now joining the global north in terms of unlocking its economy and society entirely, citizens are concerned about the tracking and that isn't going away. What is the biggest obstacle in unlocking efficient government in South Africa? Does Cyril Ramaphosa have the gumption to make the painfully hard decision to make South Africa a functional state? Nando's
How is it that after all these years, the Eastern Bloc is still such a mess? Is the mainstream media in South Africa caught in a struggle envy trap? Are the ideological struggles of 2020 less meaningful than the war-ridden struggles of the 20th century? Has South Africa wasted 30 years? How and why in 2020 does Port Elizabeth have no clean drinking water? With George Bizos' passing, perhaps this is a moment to consider how far we've come since The Rivonia Trials as a nation. Have we done justice to those who died and served time for the civil liberty of a nation?
Are South Africans vindicated in continuing to vote for the ANC? Should there be amnesty for those who confess to corrupt dealings in the past? Can the ANC save South Africa? Could Indian and Chinese border conflicts ignite WW3? Does Biden have any traits which make him a better candidate than Trump? Does America need a partisan, parochial figure like Trump to keep China in check for the sake of the global power balance? Nando's
Roman Cabanac joins the panel this week. When news has paywalls, what's the logical conclusion? Does the ANC have an exit strategy for lockdown? BEE laws are changing again, is this for better or worse? The Film & Publications Act needs scrutiny, what is its real purpose? Is violence necessary for societal progress? Nando's
How long should we give De Ruyter to turn Eskom around? The economic ramifications of South Africa's lockdown are yet to be unveiled - just how bad could things get? How are marketing spend and economic prosperity linked? Retirement funds are on the table now for the ANC government, how real should our fears be? Biden or Trump... it's come to this has it? Nando's
Is the Western Cape's independence a realistic goal? Is the will of the majority important in democracy? Should South Africans be worried about South Africa's march towards policies resembling other countries who believe in centralisation? Will skittish foreign investment return after lockdown-induced investment moratoriums? The economic pain of lockdown is still coming, but just how bad will it be for ordinary citizens? Joe Biden has his accuser on his running ticket now... what say the voters? Nando's
The heat is now being turned up on society because they can't feed their children, how long can this go on before a violent outburst occurs? Is the banking sector in South Africa 'captured', and can this situation be salvaged? When a judge needs a lawyer to fight their legal position, something is wrong isn't it? It's Women's Month, but is the proliferation of gender politics helping or hurting the prosperity of society across the board? #VoetsekANC has been trending... what's that all about? Nando's
With large government gatherings being so predominant, how will society social distance if leaders don't? Is extremism sustainable, because as we all know, "the tiger will always eat the trainer." Should we gun train all citizens? Is the ANC turning into a mob-like organisation, using violence to oppress even the most vulnerable? Greg Arde, the author of 'War Party: How the ANC's political killings are breaking South Africa', joins us to speak about the bloodbath in KwaZulu-Natal, and the factors that have led us here. Nando's
Employment: we delve into the stats on South Africans’ opinions on racially-based employment; we also ask whether it’s possible to make cadre employment work. Politics: the strife of the Cape Flats is well-documented, and it raises the question: why does it seem that solving societal problems is not a priority for career politicians? Economics: is big business in South Africa still big? And finally, South Africa's lockdown hasn’t just been the last five months, it's been the last decade. Nando's
"The emperor has no clothes... but I'm not saying it,'' has been the great failure of South Africa's citizenry lately. Can South Africans ever view contentious issues through a lens that's not tainted by race and power agendas? What is the role of dissenting voices like Helen Zille for the sanctity of democracy in SA? What are the visceral, quantifiable concerns of South Africa's voting public? Is Cyril Ramaphosa showing tendencies of tyrannical lust with his wildly oscillating Covid-19 laws and messaging? And is Trump's approach to WHO leading us to Cold War 2? Nando's
Should we be testing everyone for Covid-19? Is there going to be a second wave in Johannesburg and if yes, is this a bad thing? What are the overall effects of the health sector's response to Covid-19 globally? Could South Africa reopen the economy through track and trace monitoring of citizenry? Has the hubris of liberalism condemned Hong Kong to tyranny from China, and thus made a war between China and America inevitable? Nando's
From Bridgette Motsepe-Radebe‘s alleged scandalous links to Botswana, to the impact of the elections in Somalia... Gareth, Kanthan and guest Jean-Jacques Cornish tackle the week's biggest political stories. And while we're all still grappling with the ramifications of the Covid-19 pandemic, the team debates how unlocking countries should work. Nando's
Why can't anyone just print money? What's the difference between consumer and asset inflation? Are public sector employees useful to an economy? And just who is Finance Minister Tito Mboweni referring to when he says: "The hippopotamus must shut its mouth"? The battle to be King of Ideology continues to rage between religion and secularism, and Bheki Cele may be the only man capable of keeping South Africa's taxi industry on a leash. Nando's
Are Economic Keystrokes good, or are they a landmine for the tax paying citizenry? Can business function without a competent state intervening heavily to create conditions for economic prosperity? What is the role of tax in the economy? Is gender based violence linked to economic activity? We all hate Keynesian theory until crisis strikes... why is that? Nando's
Phumlani Majozi joins us to discuss the notion of good ideas and organising a country properly. Can government, business and labour ever march to a single beat? Hong Kong took decisive action after they were liberated, is that a replicable model for other nations who achieve liberation? Is the idea of race-based politics hindering poverty alleviation? Is BEE fundamentally flawed? Nando's
Did the townships of South Africa get the lockdown right vs the suburban approach? Will South Africa's private healthcare system be crippled because of lockdown? How the country reopens will come at a political cost and the vultures are circling already it seems. The tensions between systemic power and racial subjugation are at an all time high in America after George Floyd's murder - where to now for the home of the brave? Nando's
Is it a good idea to have private security firms to carry out state justice? What is distributive justice and how does it shape ideology? Does the private sector serve society at large better than a capable state? If a government doesn't trust its citizens, what is the logical conclusion? Armed forces are trained to kill, so what happens when their barrels are aimed at their own citizens? Nando's
How does the formative ANC structure differ from the one we see today ideologically? Does Covid-19 render the political landscape fertile for totalitarianism in South Africa? Is the economic and philosophical illiteracy of news reporters dangerous for society at large? If we lose a generation of black graduates in the formal economy because of lockdown regulation, what does that mean for the future of South Africa's social landscape? WHO should pay the biggest price globally for this pandemic? Nando's
Frans Cronje joins us this week and his suggestions about policy vs on the ground policing of Covid-19 will not be served well by the annals of history. Is the dissonance between the ANC and the Western Cape government political, or is it led by fact? How should we read the data around the case fatality rate? Death vs Economy... is it just about "market before life"? Frans Cronje's book "The Rise or Fall of South Africa" is available now on Kindle. Nando's
The team is joined by Unathi Kwaza this week. Is the very notion of a lockdown classist, or is it broadly applicable and helpful to all South African citizens? Can the formal sector learn anything from the informal sector about navigating a pandemic-ravaged economic climate? Should all laws be equal in the eyes of the citizenry, and what happens if laws aren't applicable across the board? Are the ANC the main reason for the crushing poverty many South Africans still endure 26 years after democratic liberation? Nando's
What is the purpose of a lockdown during Covid-19? Is acting reasonably something which can be encouraged, and if so, which countries have done this? Are South African politicians capable of governing the laws they make? Will the death count be the correct metric to gauge the success of measures taken during the pandemic... we just don't know! Nando's
Special guest Russell Lamberti joins us this week and asks whether the lockdown in South Africa failed from day one? Is it immoral to prevent people from working? Can we trust the ANC to administer the R500 billion relief fund without being corrupt? The economy of South Africa is now on its last legs, can it survive the impact of state-imposed stunted economic activity? Is Cyril Ramaphosa being exposed as not fit for office? Nando's
The notion that big business is the backbone of an economy might need some re-examining. Surely some sectors of the economy could be opened up? How and why does short-sighted decision making at Eskom cripple small business? Consistency in the messages being communicated by the government is vital for national confidence, how does Cyril's government score on this metric? As we attempt to deal with the economic reverberations of global economic shutdowns, which country is poised to become the new global supply chain and production hub? Is imagination important when you govern, or is it just a policy pen pushers game? Our special guest this week is Khaya Sithole. Nando's
The lockdown can sometimes feel like a daunting period, especially if you don't understand why it has to happen... yes to save lives, but are there any other tangible reasons for it? From the revelation of oligarchs who may have South Africa's economy at their beck and call, to ensuring that South Africa's social security is kept in order - our returning champions deliver on some of the hottest speaking points as the coronavirus lockdown continues in South Africa. Nando's
The best way to predict the future is to look at the past. Is there any chance of rebellion from the poor in South Africa if they are forced to comply with lockdown laws? What would this violent outbreak look like? We only have 3 ways of dealing with Covid-19, none are great but we must pick one and move forward... apathy is not a choice. Self-isolation might not be the best way to deal with coronavirus. Does China need to worry about a cold war against them from a technological and production standpoint post Covid-19? Will the rest of the world search for new centres of economic supply chains? Everyone seems to think the IMF is the next point of call for South Africa, just how true is this? Cyril Ramaphosa, the country is watching - your move! Nando's
Ivo Vegter tells us why he left the Daily Maverick. As we move into Day 1 of #Lockdown2020 in South Africa, where should we be looking for threats of violence to pop up? The sharp end of capitalism will have brutal effects on the economy at macro and micro levels, what lessons can we learn from the Covid-19 period about the state of our economic structures? Globalisation has its pros and its cons - will China be able to recover its place as the production hub of the world post Covid-19? Nando's
When you leave the intelligence services, can you just go back to a normal life? Public interest and national interest are always in a delicate relationship, but who manages it? South Africa is filled with racial tension - both now and historically. What happened during apartheid if you loved a person with a different skin colour? Moe Shaik gives us his take on the limitations he faced when he was the head of intelligence. His book, ‘The ANC Spy Bible’, is sure to have tongues in South Africa's power sanctums wagging for some time to come. Nando's
The Covid-19 epidemic is now in South Africa and has spread beyond the “Italy 10”. What does this mean for the health structures that already exist in SA, are we prepared to contain it? OPEC and their indecisive nature means Russia and Saudi Arabia are now the kings of the oil world - if only for a while. The tension between the two nations means oil is cheaper, but will this affect your petrol price? What wage should we pay our MPs in South Africa? The Public Protector can’t protect herself right now, the triad she is a part of might be a house of cards. Nando's
South Africa is officially in a double dip recession, strap yourself in! Does Cyril have the backbone to prevent 'triple dip’ by making the necessary pragmatic calls immediately? The unions have ‘declared war’ on Tito and government's plans to cut jobs and save R150 billion in the medium term. The sovereign wealth fund sounds nice, but is South Africa in a position to administer such? Will the world pivot from a China-centric production model after coronavirus stalls all production there? Bloomberg is out, Biden is now the front runner. Nando's
Tito takes a hard line at long last. The much-anticipated Budget Speech felt like Tito Mboweni has at last acted as an economist would by cutting state salaries, which although fiscally responsible, will come with a sting in the tail politically. The thorn in the side though is the R16b which has been extended to SAA as an injection - surely this is just “good money after bad?” Maybe it’s time to let SAA and Dudu Myeni both fall from their lofty heights and become creatures of the past. Apple has projected a $4b loss in profit because of coronavirus and their inability to obtain stock from China. And has the ANC failed the children of this country? Nando's
Mhlanganisi Madlongolwana joins us for a sizzling episode of The Burning Platform, and he unpacks the highlights and lowlights of Cyril’s 2020 SONA. Is the field of politics in South Africa too emotive to allow for constructive intellectual engagement? As SA finds itself leaving 'Ramaphoria' and that honeymoon period of hope, what lessons if any can be drawn from Deng Xiaoping’s early reforms in China? Is coalition in government progressive, or does it put a stranglehold on bureaucratic processes which need to serve citizens? Did Elizabeth Warren put the final nail in her own coffin in the public debate with Michael Bloomberg? Is the Democratic Party falling apart, or is it just business as usual? Nando's
The State Capture inquiry is moving forward slowly... why is it taking so long? If any prosecutions were to be made in the case, would that affect South Africa's outlook short term for citizens? Mandy Wiener details what she would like to hear from Cyril Rhamaposa at SONA. Along with special guest Mark Heywood, the team tackles the issue of economic disparity... does it create conditions for exploitation? Is AngloGold’s departure from South Africa just business, or a sign of things to come? And Carl Niehaus displays a lack of awareness that defies political logic by any standard. Nando's
Has the Iowa caucus proven that the democrats are a complete shambles? Kanthan Pillay details his lunch with FW de Klerk and the old National Party top brass. Donald Trump's impeachment has been dismissed, even after Romney crossed the floor. America’s foreign policy is clear - pro Saudi. Did the ANC really liberate South Africa like Robert Mugabe liberated Zimbabwe? Nando's
Following SANEF backing Daniel Friedman after his suspension, we look at whether they are fit for purpose in their current form? What does free speech mean, can we just say what we want to say or should we be regulated by laws? How do journalists help shape a society, what is their role as agents of dispersing important information? Is nepotism unacceptable, or do we just accept it as looking after our kin? Nando's
Is South Africa putting its best foot forward in Davos? Is Tito Mboweni beyond the point of being a corruptible man? What will the effect of The Land Bank being downgraded by Moody’s be? There are guns in the hands of criminals, where do they come from? Should guns be legal for citizens to carry at all? The WEF has its say about the investment environment and international sentiment towards South Africa currently. Are Russia and democracy going through a divorce? Donald Trump’s impeachment trial rolls on... the senate has spoken. God bless America! Nando's
Dmitry Medvedev has resigned, what happens to Russia's government now? Is a lifetime president a democratic notion? Vladimir Putin... political mastermind or monster? Peter Moyo and Trevor Manuel's Old Mutual saga rolls on. Is Bernie Sanders sexist? How is Norway getting the past, present and future so right, while we're all still a world behind? Nando's
Kanthan Pillay is back for the first Burning Platform of 2020. Is America’s approach in Iran a disaster for the Middle East at large? Is ISIS manageable without Iran’s intervention? Is the DA imploding, or has it already imploded? Helen Zille seem to be at last chance saloon. Will the EFF take significant votes from the ANC in 2021? Nando's
Is our president dead in the water? Are open borders a viable option for Africa? Is David Mabuza a loser? Reactions to Boris becoming the UK PM... Twitter hype and election results are polls part. Nando's
Kanthan Pillay is joined by Dumo Denga on the Burning Platform and they’re zooming in on the affairs of our eventful country, from the SAA business rescue to Eskom's load shedding rearing its ugly head again. Dumo thinks we could implement better methods of collecting tax where everyone benefits. Then, could Donald Trump be the first president to be impeached by congress... and potentially go on to win the 2020 elections? Nando's
Kanthan Pillay is joined by Mpiyakhe Dhlamini - an anarchy-capitalist, formerly a libertarian and formerly a socialist. The duo discuss Trump and the impeachment, and a potential recession in the horizon. Meanwhile, hot off the press, Minister Pravin Gordhan has announced what seems to be a bailout for a crippled SAA. Sexual allegations and that of an affair made public could be a devastating if not handled properly. Find out how best to deal with such a situation. Finally, the panel share their projections for the South African economy in 2020. Nando's
On the back of the SAA strike, their disgruntled employees are now up in arms over being paid only half of their salaries. Kanthan Pillay joins in via Skype and weighs in on this with a logical explanation. Dali Mpofu and Tembeka Ngcukaitobi are on different ends of a legal battle for the first time, in what’s been dubbed a legal ‘derby’. Gareth, who has personally dealt with them both in his own legal woes, gives his opinion. Nando's
Kanthan Pillay is joined by Jan-Jan Joubert and they get into all sorts, including the impeachment hearings. In other news, there's a new sheriff at Eskom, but is he the right person to turn this failed state-owned entity around? Kanthan voices some strong opinions on this topic. What do you think the future looks like for white people in SA? Jan-Jan has written a book about this topic, and Kanthan shares his opinion. The team also discuss the SAA debacle and where it’s likely to end. Nando's
Journalist Qaanitah Hunter is in studio - she has covered some of the biggest political stories in SA and has recently put it all into a book titled 'Balance of Power: Ramaphosa and the future of South Africa'. SAA has seen its fair share of controversy and is back in the spotlight for strike action, which will potentially leave many commuters stranded. The panel look into the contributing factors for the parastatal's financial woes. Then, Kanthan reveals his unsympathetic side... Nandos
We’re joined by Law graduate Jamie Mighti, and he has a very interesting theory on how we could boost our workforce through empowering the next generation of leaders using coding. The team then air their opinions of Finance Minister Tito Mboweni, and the ways in which they think we could boost our ailing economy. The BLF was recently deregistered as a political party, but could they have contributed to their own demise? Nando's
Kanthan Pillay and Dawie Scholtz join Gareth for some topical conversation. With the recent spate of resignations and reshuffling in the Democratic Alliance, the panel give their analysis on the matter. On the back of yesterday’s Budget speech, the two guests weigh in with their opinions, and, we get their thoughts on what the best solution is for Eskom with their current debt. Nando's
Right off the back of the major resignations from the Democratic Alliance (DA), Kanthan Pillay chimes in on these decisions with Gareth, a few hours after Mmusi Maimane and Athol Trollip have stepped down. Journalist Kgothatso Madisa calls in to express what he experienced at the DA press conference. Could the future of the DA lie in a coalition with the ANC? The team discuss this, and other big political stories of the week, including a chat about the state of Eskom with Giulietta Talevi, Money editor at the Financial Mail. Nando's
Barry Bateman uttered some comments not so long ago regarding EFF leader Julius Malema. The Burning Platform team weigh in on his apology, and the stance Primedia has taken on this matter. The team also discuss the state of the DA, and what the future looks like for their leader Mmusi Maimane. Kanthan Pillay explains why we are buying oil from Arab countries and overlooking our neighbours, Angola and Nigeria. Nando's
Gareth and Kanthan are joined by eNCA journalist Michael Appel, who gives his take on the State Capture Inquiry this week, and shares insight on Duduzane Zuma’s well-curated responses. An amended Employment Equity bill is on the cards, and Gareth seems to have some intel. Finally, the team get into the DA’s disarray as a political party. Nando's
Ivo Vegter joins the panel this week. Many people believe in religion, but today we take a closer look at why. Was Greta Thunberg used as a pawn in someone's agenda? There are mixed opinions in studio. Is the taxation regime in SA fair? Kanthan Pillay weighs in and breaks it down for everyone. The team chat about the morality of politicians accepting large donations, despite earning grossly high salaries. Nando's
We have Khaya Sithole in studio and make good headway in attempting to get to the root cause of the xenophobic attacks our country has seen lately, and the consequences thereof. Is there any hope for the future of South Africa? We get the opinions of the Burning Platform team. What are your thoughts on gender neutral Barbie dolls? It’s an interesting and polarising topic. Nando's
The government has had the military stationed on the streets of Cape Town in an attempt to curb the violence, but not everyone agrees with this method. We unpack this polarising topic layer by layer. We're facing many issues as a country, but how can we fix the social fabric of our nation, and should we be depending on the state to take care of things? Could it be that we are on the brink of a tax revolt? Our panel today seems to believe so. And, the water we drink from taps may not be as safe as we allow ourselves to believe. Nando's
Mungo Soggot, CEO of Scrolla, joins the team in studio. Formerly a news editor at the Mail & Guardian, he broke some of the country's biggest corruption stories, including 'Oilgate'. With the passing of former President Robert Mugabe, Gareth touches on the topic of the fallen statesman and Kanthan has some positive things to say about Zim's former president. Do you think our country’s leadership is doing enough in confronting the spate of xenophobic attacks in our country? The Burning Platform panel weighs in with their opinions. Plus of course, a look at the Barry Bateman "Poes" saga. Nando's
It’s been an eventful week in SA with xenophobia rearing its ugly head again. In response, Nigeria is pushing back and it’s not looking good. Critical thinker and Law graduate @MightiJamie joins the show and lays down some insightful views on the state of our nation, the potential ramifications, as well as the other side of the narrative. And then, Project Tito is discussed by the team. Nando's
With China’s potential increasing at a rapid rate, are they on their way to becoming a serious threat to us all? Well, Kanthan Pillay is convinced that this is the case and has arguments to back it up. Then, the paper sent by Minister Tito Mboweni has reached the likes of Gareth, Phumi and Kanthan. Nando's
Kanthan Pillay chimes in with his opinion on the old South African flag debate. The team discuss the situation between Donald Trump and Denmark. The Hong Kong protests are still topical, and Kanthan seems to believe that they are being orchestrated by a third party. Thami Nkosi from the Right2Know campaign also joins in to discuss the arms deal. Nando's
Kanthan Pillay chimes in with his opinion on the old South African flag debate. The team discuss the situation between Donald Trump and Denmark. The Hong Kong protests are still topical, and Kanthan seems to believe that they are being orchestrated by a third party. Thami Nkosi from the Right2Know campaign also joins in to discuss the arms deal. Nando's
The heat is dialled up on The Burning Platform this week as Kanthan Pillay resuscitates the NHI conversation and unpacks an article he recently penned on the topic. There may be another side to the story between Eskom and the people of of Soweto… a resident chimes in and challenges Phumi. Brought to you by Nando’s. Nando's
Should there be any funding for SA’s political parties? Gareth educates the team on what a pirate victory is, and they get into a discussion on its potential effects in government. Transport Minister Fikile Mbalula went on vacation - paid for by government money. Afriforum has taken him to court over it, but is it really their role to take on such cases? Then, Helen Zille joins the conversation and shares her controversial views on HIV and AIDS. Nando's
Repeat offender Kgosi Chikane joins the conversation, along with Kanthan Pillay, as they discuss political issues and unpack the democratic presidential debate. As a country we’ve become known for violent protests, the team share their thoughts on this way of doing things and how we can do it better. Cyril is singing a different tune now that he’s in the presidential seat... should we be concerned? Brought to you by Nando’s. Nando's
Need to know what's happening in the world of politics the world over? Then this is the podcast for you. Gareth and the team examine stories like Boris Johnson's new position as Prime Minister and how President Trump is dealing with 'The Squad', before bringing it back to South Africa by discussing jobs, where President Ramaphosa is, and the rise of the private sector, amongst other things. Brought to you by Nando’s. Nando's
Former President Jacob Zuma's testimony at the State Capture Inquiry was slightly anticlimactic, given that he didn't admit much. City Press journalist Juniour Khumalo, who's been covering the Inquiry, has read between the lines nonetheless and gives his take on what our previous Number One citizen disclosed. Following the death of legendary musician Johnny Clegg, Gareth interrogates the team on where the boundaries of cultural appropriation lie. Could Hillary Clinton be the answer the democrats need? Kanthan Pillay teases that idea when discussing the 2020 elections, and more around US politics. Brought to you by Nando’s. Nando's
Journalist Thando Maeko has been reporting on the Public Investment Corporation inquiry; she chats to the team about her observations - most recently on former CEO Dan Matjila’s testimony. There are also the week's other big political stories, like Marianne Thamm's investigation on the EFF. Nando's
Kanthan Pillay joins Phumi and Siya for "The Burning Platform". Together with Daily Maverick's Tabelo Timse, they unpack her story that reveals the Ekurhuleni municipality is spending R1.9 billion on chemical toilets. There’s also a discussion about the G20 summit, OUTA's plan to take legal action against the eThekwini Municipality and more on "The Burning Platform", fired up by Nandos. Nando's
With the State of the Nation Address reply behind us, what's the team's take on what transpired in parliament? Hear that here before Mabine Seabe, the DA's Acting Executive Director of Communications, shares his thoughts on #SONAReply too. Then, all the attention turns to the G20 Summit that will be taking place in Osaka and who the key players in it are. Nando's
Journalist Sam Mkokeli has written a piece titled "Who’s winning the battle of the bulls, Cyril or Ace? And will Busisiwe Mkhwebane survive?" His analysis in the article raises many pertinent points that Gareth and Phumi discuss, just ahead of the second State Of the Nation Address. Brought to you by Nando's. Nando's
Gareth, Phumi and Kanthan have Khaya Sithole join them for this week's edition of The Burning Platform. Khaya doesn’t shy away from voicing his political opinions, which makes him the perfect fit to the team. From questioning what deputy cabinet ministers do, to looking at what might happen to the Conservative Party in the UK, and even why Kanthan doesn't like marches, in light of the Hong Kong protests. Brought to you by Nando's. Nando's
Kanthan Pillay makes a triumphant return! Together with Phumi, they discuss Cyril’s gormless economy; Ace Magashule’s insistence on making us all poorer; the real reason the ANC are so interested in the Reserve Bank; whether the Proteas are a threat to National Unity; which cabinet minister you’d want in the family (at gunpoint) and Jacob Zuma writing a book. You won’t be bored! Nando's
Gareth and Phumi pick Ivo Vegter's brain as he gives his take on President Cyril Ramaphosa's new cabinet. Who's in? Who's out? Who are the surprising non-movers? Hear it all, with in-depth analysis here. They conclude with their comments on Helen Zille and Thuli Madonsela's high tea. Brought to you by Nando’s. Nando's
It's been a heavy and hot political week, so the best solution is some comedy! Hear what John Vlismas thinks about post-elections SA, Helen Zille's tweets, a Gigaba-free parliament and lots more. Nando's