Carte Blanche: The Podcast

Worker’s Day or Unemployment Day? Millions of South Africans have little to celebrate. As the search for missing Joshlin Smith continues, we look at the growing crisis our children face. Then, a major political move to free two South Africans imprisoned in Equatorial Guinea. And is that some hope we see on the horizon? Eskom says: you bet. But first – small parties with a potentially big swing. As more fringe parties grab the attention of major contenders, we ask whether organisations vying for independent territories could have any impact on SA politics.

Several political parties – both big and small – are coming out in full force as the elections creep ever closer. But what’s truly on offer? And how capable are the many political parties of sticking to those promises? We speak to Eyewitness News politics associate editor and Politricking host, Tshidi Madia, about manifestos, the biggest potential losers, own goals and whether your chosen party is willing to sell its soul in the coalition game.

The NPA is tired of waiting and urges ministers, accused and others to get a move-on. Then, carnage in the Cape as gangs take hold. Later, the Forgotten War – we turn our focus to Sudan’s worsening civil war. And the Supreme Court of Appeal comes to rape victims’ defence. But first, this past Sunday, Carte Blanche aired a special 90-minute documentary titled 30 Years of Democracy. With the elections only a month away, we look back at the difficult road travelled, the importance of hope, and the future of a nation on the cusp of change.

Daily Maverick has shut down – well, sort of. Why all South Africans should pay attention. It’s the battle of Public Protectors – but at what cost? Then, the ANC is confident it will reign victorious come the May elections. And a win for Siya Kolis, Limpopo musicians… and South Africa as a whole. But first, we try and understand why so many people are convinced that the late former Steinhoff CEO, Markus Jooste, is faking his own death…

Devastating storms in the Western Cape have us worried about what the future holds. A nation left vulnerable – we look at the dire state of our military. Then, how one man is saving lives – one box of medication at a time. And the so-called Hardest Geezer does the unimaginable. But first, it’s been a busy week for the IEC as not one but two major court judgments had everyone buzzing.

Bring back the Scorpions! No more parole. Penal colonies in the Kalahari. And grand corruption will be declared a “crime against humanity”. Furthermore, the triple BEE model will be scrapped – but is a proposed replacement just BEE dressed up in a fancier name? Masa Kekana sits down with ActionSA’s Herman Mashaba to find out how the party hopes to achieve many of its lofty promises.

As the inquiry into the deadly Usindiso building fire wraps up, survivors are running out of time. Another step closer to Eskom 2.0 – but will it solve our power problems? Then, several arrests in the Fort Hare University scandal exposes a deadly network of crime and corruption. And bye-bye e-tolls? Government says: we promise.

A private education giant has fallen, leaving devastated students and parents in its wake. The ANC finds itself between a rock and a hard place as the National Speaker faces arrest. Later, we reflect on a few stories that made us question reality. And how an invasive plant is bringing hope to families in the Northern Cape.

The clear divide between what government chooses to celebrate on Human Rights Day, and what’s really happening on the ground. Then, one basic human right countless South Africans are living without. Later, we need to talk about the MK Party… And how kids on the Cape Flats are helping sunbirds find their way home.

With just over two months to go before South Africans are set to make their mark, Masa Kekana sits down with My Vote Counts campaigner, Keamogetswe Seipato, to find out why this election feels so different. What's truly at stake? Who has the most to lose? And why the youth hold the power to change it all.

We’re joined by journalist, Takudzwa Pongweni to take us into this past week’s The Gathering. Then, are local news publications suffering because of tech giants? Has X become a safe space for cyberbullies? One activist says: yes. Later, Nigeria comes down hard on plastic pollution, but is it the best solution? And Gauteng’s Green Army is uplifting communities one veggie garden at a time.

All is not well with Knysna, and a 109-page report tries to explain why. You’ve heard of state capture. But are we entering an era of media capture?Then, the High Court says no to anti-vaxxers. Later, how one mining giant is playing its part in reviving Mpumalanga’s rivers. And the country has been gripped by the heartbreaking case of young Joshlin Smith. Following arrests last week, we look at the state’s case and how online sleuths perhaps took things too far.

Cadre deployment: what does it mean, who’s benefiting and is the DA really in a position to complain?But first: Arrests at last! A massive breakthrough in the AKA murder case gives us hope.Then, AI saves the day as SARS uses tech to take back taxes. And the fight against HIV and AIDS gets a massive boost as a game-changing pilot project goes live.

Causing a stink in Cape Town – the so-called livestock death ship reignites a decades-long debate. Eradicate pit latrines or else – why government has failed to address this human rights violation. Then, we finally have an election date! And why is the ANC staying quiet on Alexei Navalny's death?

The Usindiso Inquiry continues and it highlights the City of Joburg’s many failings. The death of an 11-year-old boy shines the spotlight on unfinished building projects across the country. Then, a feel-good update on a story that left many of our followers seeing red. And conservation news reminds us what we are capable of if we work together. But first, it’s the dreaded Budget week where we are given a sobering overview of the country’s finances. However, if the ANC’s recent comments on loadshedding and state capture are anything to go by, it seems we’re very much on our own…

Someone hide the pens! While the President is eager to sign off on the NHI Bill, organisations and opposition parties are sounding the alarm. Then, the taxman is telling controversial businessman Edwin Sodi to pay up. And we quench our thirst for some good news as we celebrate Tyla’s Grammy win.

Over the years, Carte Blanche has done several investigations into alleged child sexual abuse at various elite boys’ schools across the country. Our focus was primarily on several sports coaches who are either currently facing allegations of child grooming and sexual assault, or have been prosecuted. One thing that was seen in all our investigations was the culture of secrecy that so often prevents victims from speaking out against their abuser. Masa Kekana sits down with Luke Lamprecth from Women and Men Against Child Abuse to gain more insight into why paedophiles often choose aquatic sports to gain access to their young victims, what schools can do to ensure career paedophiles aren’t able to move from one school to the next, and why parents should also guard themselves from being groomed.

It’s SONA week and we’re certain many South Africans aren’t too bothered about even watching the whole affair. But with a potentially life-altering election looming, this might be the most important SONA in years… No spark was found, but a recent lacklustre report on the 2021 July riots certainly sparked controversy. Then, campus horrors as the dark underbelly of Stellenbosch initiation culture is exposed. But is this an isolated case? Then, we head off to the Karoo to visit a tiny town with a few big surprises. And we dig into unsolved mysteries – maybe you could help us find the missing pieces.

Is Jacob Zuma an ANC problem or a South African problem? We recently discussed the former president's comments against the ruling party in this week's episode of The WholeWeek Wrap with Daily Maverick and why his suspension isn't necessarily a win for a fractured ANC.

Joining us this week is financial journalist, Ray Mahlaka to help us dissect everything from elections to what’s been happening at this past week’s World Economic Forum’s annual meeting in Davos. Then, we ask the question: is it too late for Transnet? And promises, promises, promises. As election season kicks off, Ray tells us what he wants to see and hear from SA’s politicians. That and more, so let’s get into it.

It was when her longtime clients were most vulnerable – dealing with the passing of loved ones – that one Pretoria accountant allegedly dipped into their funds. But where were the industry watchdogs when things went very wrong?

They call it TV-on-demand – giving consumers access to hundreds of channels and streaming services, all at their fingertips. But what are you really bringing into your home with cheap, illegal TV boxes?

A hospital designed for patients and built by doctors determined to bring change. Why this new medical facility in Joburg is a game-changer.

In this extended episode, we look at what 2024 might hold. From major elections both locally and internationally, the rise of watershedding, and the dawn of AI. We also examine how global superpowers might have to step aside as Brazil, India and even South Africa are set to have greater political influence. That and so much more in the final episode of 2023.

The concept of ecopsychology is becoming a big talking point as experts encourage individuals to feel the grass beneath their feet, breathe in the fresh air, watch wildlife go about their day, or get their hands dirty in the garden. We sit down with Conservation Psychologist, Dr Andrea Marais-Potgieter. Exploring the connection between humans and nature, Andrea understands just how important it is to reconnect with the natural world while also healing nature in the process.

An out-of-the-box approach to bring their son back from the brink of death. Josh Crickmay is living a big adventure, repaying a life debt to mother nature.

It's Dezemba and it's been a whopper of a year overflowing with news events that left us stunned, surprised, infuriated, despondent, and inspired. We look back on some of the major newsmakers that had an impact on us and the nation.

He used a popular social media platform for professionals to lure his unsuspecting international clients. But once they paid up, the so-called LinkedIn Swindler disappeared with their money. But police are on his trail.

A devastating outbreak of bird flu, farmers on the brink of financial ruin and a last-ditch attempt to prevent food shortages. Can the poultry industry survive SA’s worst outbreak in recorded history?

First-time voters show up in full force, but will it be enough to effect change in the upcoming national elections? We talk about coalitions – again – as a minority party speaker takes her place in Joburg. Then, the ongoing war in Gaza hits close to home as the ANC takes a stance. And how one programme is turning learners into leaders.

It should have been a moment of celebration; hundreds of donations from generous Carte Blanche viewers delivered to children with special needs at Ikwezi Lokusa. But it almost ended in anger and frustration for the volunteers...

It’s estimated about one in four women will have a hysterectomy by the age of 55. Melanie Verwoerd became part of that statistic, and endured months of a gruelling recovery after her surgery – but now for the big question: was the operation even necessary?

We look at why Ukrainian president Volodymyr Zelensky has his sights set on Africa. Then, a Harvard report provides some clues on how to fix the country. We make sense of the Forex Cartel case involving multiple major banks. Later, the global fight against TB continues and South Africa is leading the way. And does size really matter? When it comes to small towns, the answer is no.

Fuel spiking, cross-border tax fraud, under-declaring of quantities… We expose a game of dodgy clearing agents and fake paperwork as the underground dirty fuel industry costs the country billions. We go undercover.

As South Africa continues to celebrate the Springboks' recent Rugby World Cup victory, we look back on their thrilling journey and get a glimpse of things to come.

As the war in Gaza continues, we look at the inexcusable human cost on both sides. Then, the fight against corruption continues but is government even in our corner? Later, Transnet has gone off the rails and another bail out is probably not the best solution. And hold onto hope and celebrate the beauty of South Africa as we wrap things up with a few green shoots.

Peacekeepers, force multipliers, or a Premier's private army? Hastily deployed with training still in progress and now accused of brutal assault. We investigate how Gauteng's Crime Prevention Wardens might become a law unto themselves.

She's among the rare few experts who can decipher the secrets in bones. Through her work, she reveals how and why a newborn baby passed away.

Is there a doctor in the house? Certainly not when it comes to bogus doctor, Matthew Lani. Homeless and hopeless: survivors of the Marshalltown Fire are left to fend for themselves. Then, as loadshedding makes its unwelcome return, Eskom delivers even more bad news. And we pay tribute to two inspiring individuals - Professor Shabir Madhi and Nompilo Dlamini.

It’s compact, lightweight and has a top speed of 70km an hour. In the cutthroat business of e-hailing services, the Bajaj Qute is an unwelcome competitor. But is the new kid on the block operating illegally and putting the lives of motorists and commuters at risk?

While poaching continues to decimate South Africa’s rhino, conservation efforts were given a lifeline with the purchase of the world’s largest population of privately owned rhino. Can an audacious plan by NGO African Parks to rewild 2,000 of them help save white rhino in South Africa?

The ANC wants to call it quits on partnering with the EFF. The latest Brenthurst Survey predicts some interesting 2023 election outcomes. Then, the AGOA Forum kicks off this week. And the SA Music Awards in limbo. But first, Erin Bates and Queenin Masuabi look at the Springboks' unforgettable Rugby World Cup journey and how it’s inspired a nation.

Explosions, sinkholes, earth tremors. Beneath our feet, the dangerous, volatile world of zama zamas. But could rampant illegal gold mining ultimately destroy Johannesburg?

Runner Jono Kruger runs with purpose. We meet the local hero who’s challenging poverty in the lives of children in his Eastern Cape.

The Western Cape is under siege as gang violence and organised crime takes hold. A damning report on last year’s Parliament blaze confirms what we all kind of knew. Then, is this another Life Esidimeni on the cards? The horrendous state at Charlotte Maxeke Hospital’s psychiatric ward. And the Train of Hope that’s bringing healthcare to the masses.

The Johannesburg Property Company is back in the spotlight as questions emerge around its current board, while a controversial CEO manages to stay under the radar.

He’s a popular figure in his community and a well-known pharmacist in Gauteng. Now under investigation for allegedly trading codeine on the black market, we find out what he’s been hiding.

You've listened to our recent stories on suspended lawyer Zuko Nonxuba and the terrible conditions at Ikwezi Lokusa Special School. Now, we speak to the producer behind both these ongoing investigations, Tarryn Crossman. From traversing the rural areas of the Eastern Cape in search of Nonxuba's alleged victims, to going undercover to witness the horrors at Ikwezi Lokusa - Tarryn takes us behind the camera.

We’ve seen the devastation of the Israel-Hamas War and South Africa won’t be left unscathed. Is Pravin the problem? Why our SOEs just can’t seem to get it right. Then, South Africa closes the books on Steinhoff. And grains of hope in the latest census report.

Carte Blanche is known for telling hard-hitting, impactful stories. But some stories hit harder than others, most notably our stories on matters affecting children. Two recent investigations left Masa Kekana and Govan Whittles shaken - our exposé on suspended lawyer, Zuko Nonxuba, and an undercover investigation into Ikwezi Lokhusa Special School. Masa and Govan discuss the difficulties around telling these stories and how they deal with the emotional toll that follows.

A global event hosted with a promise of the glorious legacy that would put SA soccer on the map. But a decade on, the promises lay plundered. Who stole the country’s footballing hope.

When the deadly cholera outbreak struck Hammanskraal in May, the town was invaded by media, microphones, blue lights and politicians. Promises were made. So, why are the very people who lost their loved ones to cholera still dependent on the water tankers they blame for the outbreak?

Two big findings by Parliament's Ethics Committee have everyone riled up. A doping scandal of a different kind as government misses a crucial deadline. Has South Africa passed the point of no return as kidnappings and assassinations become the order of the day? Government places its bets on the Post Bank. And two South African teachers get recognised for their work in uplifting the youth.

During the deadly taxi strike, Philippi East - a crime-ridden suburb - was caught in the crossfire. Now, with a precarious truce struck between the City of Cape Town and taxi bosses, can this community move on?

Fast cars, dirt roads and a passion for racing… Ordinarily, you wouldn’t associate this with a school. But one school in the Eastern Cape is helping students leave the classroom in the dust!

The recent Cape Town floods have us wondering just how prepared national government is for extreme weather events. Then, we look at how the ANC is failing the people of South Africa. And we reflect on the tragic lives of Zoleka and Winnie Mandela.

In the Eastern Cape, well-known lawyer, Zuko Nonxuba allegedly defrauded his young clients: children living with disabilities. But despite him operating for years, the organisation that ensures lawyers fulfil their mandate failed to stop him.

Three children are murdered in South Africa every day. The most recent crime stats reveal that 293 children were murdered between April and June this year - a 20 percent increase. Shockingly, many of these cases are unresolved.

When soccer star Senzo Meyiwa was shot dead, Zamokuhle Mbatha’s life changed forever. Charged with his brutal murder and paraded in court, he was the first suspect in the case. But the police got it wrong.

Eskom sees less loadshedding in our future. But how optimistic should we be? The National State Enterprises Bill has ruffled a few feathers. So, what does it all mean? Markus Jooste says it wasn't him. How plausible is his defence? President Ramaphosa's dubious June peace mission to Ukraine and Russia is bearing fruit - sort of. And when it comes to loadshedding, a sense of humour will get you far. Just ask Trevor Noah.

In Johannesburg, at least 77 people were killed after a fire tore through a five-storey building. Witnesses say most of the victims didn’t stand a chance. Now, as the city scrambles for answers, we investigate how hijacked buildings could bring the inner city to its knees.

Gripped by unemployment and frantic to find a way out… How ruthless job scammers are preying on job seekers.

Taking the courageous - and possibly dangerous - step of blowing the whistle on fraud and corruption has just become a lot easier. Meet the heroes of Whistleblower House where safety and support have found a new address.

National Treasury wants to tighten the purse strings and not everyone is keen on the idea. A civil servant strike has the City of Tshwane on its knees, while other metros across the country are teetering on the edge. Then, we celebrate the Rugby World Cup gees and look at ways to fix the country.

There’s virtually no game of rugby that doesn’t result in some concussion injuries. But the big question: how many knocks does it take to cause long-term, irreversible damage? We reveal breakthroughs in concussion research that help protect the players and the game.

There's no denying: the South African economy is on shaky ground. As a result, many business across the country are struggling to keep head above water, leaving many owners dent-ridden and facing impending collapse. But business rescue could be a life-saver, especially if you act early. Masa Kekana speaks to business rescue practitioners about the pros and cons of the process and why it's not necessarily the end of the road for some.

Ever since another taxi strike erupted on the streets of Cape Town in August, negotiations between City of Cape Town officials and taxi industry representative body, SANTACO, have been ongoing. Insiders say discussions have been fraught as both sides thrash out the finer points of an agreement that would not only protect commuters, but ensure there’s a mutual understanding between officials, taxi drivers and operators. We caught up with conflict resolution specialist, Andre Vlok, to find out where previous negotiations most likely fell apart, and get his views on possible long-term solutions.

Nothing to see here, folks… The Lady R report raises more questions. Why has Daily Maverick become the target of not one, but two cyber attacks? Then, the SANDF is left red-faced as classified info gets leaked. Later, big pharma bullies… We look at the recently released COVID-19 contracts. And some good news for 2000 South African rhino.

Emirates Airline Park - once the grand dame of stadiums hosting some of the biggest rugby clashes in the world. Now, as Joburg’s inner city continues to decay, this iconic stadium stands as a shadow of its former glory.

In March 2023, we investigated a Swedish businessman and self-styled philanthropist who’d made sweeping promises to an impoverished community in the Limpopo town of Alldays. We uncovered how he’d failed to keep those promises, failing the area’s children and becoming embroiled in a dispute in which the local municipality appeared reluctant to intervene. It was an outcome for which the children and their desperate carers were paying the ultimate price. But happily, things have changed as the businessman has fled the country, and the children in need were finally given access to this life-changing centre.

Violent, prolific and with an insatiable appetite for killing young boys. For years, the Station Strangler terrorised communities in the Western Cape. Now, the man once believed to be the serial murderer is on parole and his neighbours are living in fear.

A devastating fire in Johannesburg leaves over 70 people dead. But could it have been prevented? We look at Gauteng crime stats and crime wardens. Then, a vote mired in controversy: why is government keeping quiet on the Zimbabwe elections? Later, another political party is launched. This time, Ace Magashule is ready to ACT. And another shoutout to Gift of the Givers.

What does a retired prison warder, a house mother and pastor have in common? They all landed in the clutches of a notorious local scamster. We’re on the trail of a well-known Eastern Cape farmer who duped scores of victims out of their pensions.

A mother entrusts the care of her newborn to someone she knows. Within seconds, both disappear without a trace. So, how did a healthcare worker solve the case of a missing baby boy?

Years of tension between the City of Cape Town and the taxi industry came to a head this week as wanton violence spilled onto the city’s highways and streets, unwitting commuters and other civilians caught in the middle. On Thursday last week, taxi bosses unexpectedly suspended their services to embark on a week-long stay-away that left thousands of desperate commuters stranded. Many of them, including school children, attempted the long treacherous journeys home on foot. Violence soon followed as buses and other vehicles were burnt and stoned, and troublemakers sowed chaos on commuter transport routes by intimidating workers trying to get to and from work. At the centre of the stand-off was a demand that impounded taxis be released, something the City’s authorities refused to consider. By Thursday evening, and after several rounds of tense negotiations, the taxi industry finally gave in.

It was all eyes on BRICS - so what's in it for us? Then, we look at recent extreme climate events and ask: how prepared is SA government? Then, a much-needed positive development in the Zuko Nonxuba matter. And we pay tribute to Derek Watts.

Johannesburg: the City of Gold. Poorly maintained, high crime levels, dilapidated. Cape Town: the Mother City. Pristine beaches, a functioning municipality and the dark underbelly of organised crime. It’s the battle of provinces as hard-nosed Joburgers choose to escape to the Cape.

Are baseless lawsuits and intimidation shrinking the space for journalists in South Africa to speak truth to power? We investigate the rising cost of press freedom and the potentially lethal toll of fear and interference.

Sports broadcaster extraordinaire, and standing tall among the legends of the sports, Motshidisi Mohono is rugby’s First Lady.

A new COVID strain makes headlines. But no need to stock up on wine and cigarettes just yet. Then, will government hand over secretive documents relating to COVID vaccine procurement deals? Wednesday is election day for Zimbabwe and things are off to a really bad start… Later, coalition government has a dismal track record in SA. But could the Moonshot Pact make a success of it? And there’s a lot of good news: from heroic ministers to employment figures, and a rising star…

In May this year, a body was found on a beach in Macassar in the Western Cape. The victim, a young woman, had been brutally raped and murdered before being dumped in the sand. There were no witnesses, and over the next few days, three more bodies were discovered in this small community. But it wasn’t always like this: elderly residents who have lived in the once-peaceful fishing village their whole lives recall happier times. But in the past decade, conditions have deteriorated so dramatically that Macassar is no longer safe, with gangs from inside and outside the area roaming the streets. With the police apparently powerless to help, Macassar is under siege.

Residents on Joburg’s East Rand are living in fear. Illegal rock blasting, running gun battles and zama zamas mining for gold - right on their doorsteps.

What would you do to help your child realise their sporting dream - even if it’s wacky and off-beat? The story of a mother, her daughter and a 1600 km journey in a very old tractor.

A quick look at the recent taxi strike and, of course, Zuma's special remission. Then, we focus on several court cases this week including the Blue Lights assault matter, the acquittal of child rapist, Ntokozo Zikhali, and the latest on the Babita Deokoran case. We also continue our Women's Month discussion.

A sanctioned Russian oligarch, a multi-billion rand Manganese mine and the impoverished communities in the Northern Cape that should’ve benefited from a lucrative deal. We investigate why it all went wrong.

A former president, South Africa’s political entanglements, and the dance with Putin's Russia. Does a friendship with Russia jeopardise South Africa’s future?

We investigate a man of many incarnations: film director, television distributor, doctor and now, pastor. Why do his victims claim he’s duped them out of hundreds of thousands of rands? After a year-long investigation, we track down the notorious Netflix Scammer.

Symbolic or a veiled threat? We look at the latest debate swirling around Kill The Boer. Then, illegal mining is top of mind for many Joburg residents. So, what’s the solution? And we celebrate Women’s Month while also taking a very sober look at what can be done to empower South African women even more.

As the influx of coal trucks to Richards Bay keeps escalating, stockpiles are popping up like mushrooms with scant regard to rules and regulations. How will the residents survive clouds of black dust permeating the air they breathe?

As Eskom continues to teeter on the edge, we ask what disaster management plans have been put in place should the unthinkable happen.

Train harder, play with power and perseverance, show no mercy. They've been called SA's beacon of hope, the pride of the nation. But what will it take for Banyana Banyana to win the upcoming World Cup?

Putin won't be attending the BRICS Summit, but SA's Russia headache is far from over. Then, why did it take so long for Paul Mashatile's VIP Protection Unit to get arrested? And we get excited about the Netball World Cup.

Westbury - an area with a rich history and a violent present. Located on the outskirts of Johannesburg, the region has been plagued by gangsterism for decades. But individuals like gangster-turned-pastor, Peter Faver hope to turn things around and save the community from a bloody future.

Criminals are terrorising the streets of Mthatha. But it’s tourists who’ve become easy targets for card scammers. With no evidence, and no police investigation, the visitors fear coming back to South Africa.

"A web of lies, eager accomplices and the dramatic escape of Thabo Bester. But his freedom was short-lived. Now, a former Mangaung Prison guard pieces together the clues. "

In a community overcome by drug abuse and teen pregnancy, one woman is using sports to bring change. Now, a battered netball court has become the building blocks for a better future.

Will Zuma be sent back to prison? First, he needs to come back to South Africa. Then, medical xenophobia comes under the spotlight this week. And why every day should be Mandela Day.

On the running calendar, the Comrades Marathon is the toughest race on earth. Local and international competitors train for months, sometimes even years, for the opportunity to complete the brutal 89 km run. For the last-place finishers, the medal is priceless: confirmation that they’ve completed the race before the 12-hour cut-off time. But this year, something went horribly wrong and hundreds of runners were cut off “too soon”. In fact, there were hardly any runners near the finish line when the gun went off at the 12-hour mark, leaving the field uncharacteristically empty. With runners crying foul, claiming they’ve been unfairly deprived of their hard-earned medals, what went wrong?

For days, heavy rains in the Western Cape wreaked havoc on the province. With no electricity and no food supplies coming in, Citrusdal was cut off and farmers suffered devastating losses. We visit a community in turmoil.