SMWX

The Constitutional Court’s Phala Phala judgment may have closed one chapter — but it may have opened another. In this episode, Sizwe Mpofu-Walsh is joined by Mighti Jamie to unpack the implications of the judgment, the growing political pressure on President Cyril Ramaphosa, and the difficult road that impeachment would present for Parliament and the country. Would resignation spare South Africa a prolonged institutional crisis? Or would it create an even deeper political vacuum? Let’s dive in.

In a landmark Constitutional Court judgment today, the Phala Phala saga has been reopened and been referred for Parliament to institute impeachment proceedings. We speak to political parties, analysts and unpack what this moment means for South Africa and its future.

Political analyst, Lukhona Mnguni, joins us on SMWX for a preview of the ConCourt's Phala Phala judgment which will be delivered on Friday 8 May 2026. This judgement is about whether the ANC in Parliament, unconstitutionally used its majority to shield the President from accountability. In this episode, we scenario plan what could unfold in the ConCourt and what the political consequences are for South Africa.

MP Fadiel Adams has been arrested by the SAPS PKTT for charges of defeating the ends of justice and fraud. The Constitutional Court has also announced that they will deliver the Phala Phala judgment on Friday 8 May 2026 at 10am. We unpack this and the latest coming out of the Madlanga Commission.

Witness G, a Crime Intelligence official who manages informers and is alleged to have been Brown Mogotsi's handler appeared before the Madlanga Commission of Inquiry. Justice Madlanga had to move the proceedings fully in-camera after it became impossible to have the evidence presented in public without compromising the witness' identity.

We are exactly a week away from the expected deadline for the much anticipated Phala Phala ConCourt judgment to be delivered. The Constitutional Court, in response to EFF Leader Julius Malema's letter, ascertained that the judgment was at an advanced stage and should be expected within a month from the response (8 April 2026). In this episode, we give you context about how we got here and the different scenarios that we could see play out once the judgment is given.

Tshukudu Malatji, a City of Tshwane official in charge of asset protection appeared before the Madlanga Commission of Inquiry today and was questioned about the unlawful R14M expenditure on a security tender, the movement of bid documents related to tenders, the payment and authorisation of invoices for services that were not yet delivered to the City. We unpack all of this and how it links to the testimonies of other key witnesses in the Tshwane story like Gareth Mnisi, Lebogang Phiri, Umashi Dlamini and others.

In this episode of SMWX, we unpack this week's scandals involving an over R1Bn tender for textbooks, Chinese SUVs that were given to Ministers and AI generated sources in a draft policy. What does the mean for the Government of National Unity and its stability?

Umashi Dlamini continued his testimony at the Madlanga Commission and he was questioned today on the tender awarding saga in the City of Tshwane. We unpack this, and Brown Mogotsi's shock application for Evidence Leader Adv Chaskalson SC's recusal for his testimony that is scheduled. We finally also unpack Kagiso Lerutle and Julius Mkhwanazi's successful bail application

French Ambassador to South Africa, David Martinon, joins us on SMWX for a conversation about France-SA relations, the Africa Summit, upcoming G7 summit in France.

President Ramaphosa has suspended SAPS National Commissioner General Fannie Masemola amidst charges against him of contravening the PFMA in Matlala’s R360M tender. Ramaphosa appoints SAPS CFO Lt Gen Puleng Dimpane as the Acting National Police Commissioner. We unpack this and what it means for the fight against crime and corruption in South Africa.

Sergeant Fannie Nkosi was denied bail today, whilst Suspended Deputy District Commissioner in Sedibeng Brigadier Nkhwashu appeared before the Madlanga Commission of Inquiry. Nkhwashu was questioned on his relationship with KT Molefe as well as the movement of dockets in the Armand Swart murder case.

Gareth Mnisi concludes his testimony at the Madlanga Commission of Inquiry, Police chief Gen Fannie Masemola appeared in court and the story of DJ Sumbody's murder continues. We unpack all of this and the consequences for South Africa.

Suspended City of Tshwane CFO, Gareth Mnisi, has continued his appearance at the Madlanga Commission of Inquiry. He has been giving evidence around the tender awarding process at the City and his possible involvement in the outcomes of this project to the possible benefit of Sergeant Nkosi's brother.

In this conversation, SMWX sits down with Build One South Africa leader Dr Mmusi Maimane to discuss Unite for Change, BOSA’s merger with the People’s Prosperity Movement, and what opposition politics in South Africa could look like ahead of 2029. Maimane reflects on coalition politics, leadership, the DA’s federal congress, Geordin Hill-Lewis, and whether South Africa needs a new centrist political alternative. The discussion also explores governance, coalition-building, the future of the GNU, and the big questions facing Johannesburg ahead of the next local government elections.

In this in-depth conversation, SMWX sits down with Gauteng MEC for Human Settlements, Tasneem Motara, to unpack the realities of housing, politics, and leadership in South Africa. The discussion explores the state of mega housing projects in Gauteng, the challenges of spatial inequality, and the evolving approach to RDP housing. Tasneem also reflects on her journey into politics, the demands of public service, and the personal growth that comes with leadership. The conversation then shifts to Johannesburg’s political landscape, including Helen Zille's campaign, coalition politics, and the ANC’s position in government. A deep dive into coalition instability, ideological divides, and governance challenges provides insight into the current political climate. Finally, the discussion tackles infrastructure, the role of private capital, hostel redevelopment, and how government balances economic growth with social responsibility.

Gareth Mnisi, suspended City of Tshwane CFO, was testifying today at the Madlanga Commission. We unpack his testimony thus far and weigh in more on Julius Malema's reaction to his sentencing hearing. Lt Gen Mkhwanazi was also appointed as the head of the National Crime Fighting Task Team.

EFF leader Julius Malema has been sentenced to 5 years direct imprisonment by the East London Magistrate's Court this morning. Malema was trialed for the contravention of the Firearms Control Act and had been convicted on 5 counts. The 5 year prison sentence is inclusive of a 2 year sentence for count 2, which would be served concurrently to count 1's 5 year sentence. He has also been sentenced to R60K in fines, or 18 months combined imprisonment for the other 3 counts. Malema has also successfully applied for leave to appeal the sentencing and will be petitioning the higher courts for a leave to appeal his conviction as well. We unpack all of this and make sense of the consequences for Malema, the EFF and the South African political landscape.

EFF Leader Julius Malema appeared before the East London Magistrate's Court today for his pre-sentencing hearing and will be appearing on Thursday for his sentencing. We unpack this and what it means for him and the organization. We also zoom in on the continued testimony of Julius Mkhwanazi at the Madlanga Commission.

EFF Leader Julius Malema, who has been convicted for contravening firearm laws in South Africa related to an EFF rally from 2018, appears for his sentencing at the East London Magistrate's Court today. We preview this sentencing, what could happen and what this means for the EFF and South Africa's political landscape.

Julius Mkhwanazi re-appeared before the Madlanga Commission of Inquiry today and at the beginning of his testimony, was questioned about whether he misled the Commission in getting a postponement for his appearance. This postponement was requested due to the passing of his mother. We unpack this and the rest of his testimony, as well as Geordin Hill-Lewis' meeting with President Ramaphosa.

Suleiman Carrim, who was expected to continue his testimony at the Madlanga Commission this week, has been hospitalized following a suspected heart attack. Sergeant Nkosi has also appeared in court today for his bail application. We unpack this and more!

We take you inside day 2 of the DA congress, as a new generation of DA leaders is announced.

In this episode of Economic Justice Matters by the Institute for Economic Justice, we unpack one of the most critical questions facing South Africa today: Is the economy finally turning the corner — or are we still stuck in structural stagnation? Featuring Deputy Finance Minister Ashor Sarupen, Gilad Isaacs (Executive Director, IEJ), and Thoko Madonko (Southern Centre for Inequality Studies), this debate dives deep into: The reality behind South Africa’s “green shoots”, whether debt is truly stabilizing, the role of the state vs the private sector, the unemployment crisis and what it will take to fix it and much more!

Action SA has secured the release of the IPID report that details the investigations and recommendations into the Phala Phala saga. In this report, we get a picture of how senior SAPS officials in the Presidential Protection Unit contravened the law in an effort to conceal the theft of foreign currency from the President's private farm. We take a deep dive into this report and its consequences.

The Madlanga Commission of Inquiry, today, heard from Tshukudu Malatji - an official who works in the Asset Protection department. We unpack his testimony and the revelations that have come out of the City of Tshwane.

The Constitutional Court of South Africa has indicated that it is in the advanced stage of the Phala Phala judgment's completion and will deliver this judgement within a month. This was in reponse to EFF leader Julius Malema's letter addressed to the Chief Justice on the delay in this matter. We unpack what this means for the Phala Phala saga and how we could see this situation unfold.

Sergeant Fannie Nkosi has been arrested and he will be in custody until Monday 13 April. We unpack this and the resumption of the Madlanga Commission of Inquiry after an Easter recess. This week, the Commission is expected to hear evidence relating to the City of Tshwane, particularly the Tshwane Metropolitan Police Department (TMPD).

Global geopolitics is shifting — and fast. In this episode of SMWX, renowned diplomat and global thinker Prof Kishore Mahbubani breaks down the biggest forces shaping the world today — from US–China relations to the Middle East conflict, BRICS, and South Africa’s place in a changing global order. We unpack why the delayed meeting between Donald Trump and Xi Jinping matters, how the global economy has remained resilient despite rising tariffs, and why the current Middle East war could be a strategic advantage for China.

In this episode of SMWX, the Minister of Land Reform and Rural Development breaks down the realities behind land redistribution, expropriation, and the challenges of transforming policy into action. From the slow pace of land reform to new proposed legislation, this conversation unpacks what’s really happening inside government — and what it means for ordinary South Africans.

South Africa is heading into another crucial round of local government elections — but the political landscape has fundamentally changed.In this episode of SMWX, we break down the latest polling from the Social Research Foundation and Ipsos to understand where each major party stands right now — nationally and in key metros like Johannesburg, Tshwane, Ekurhuleni and eThekwini.The numbers tell a clear story: no party is anywhere near outright control in the country’s major cities. Instead, South Africa is entering a deeper phase of coalition politics — with more parties, more fragmentation, and more uncertainty than ever before.We unpack:Where the African National Congress actually sits today — and whether this is now its ceilingThe Democratic Alliance’s position in metros and why it still struggles to break throughThe rise of the MK Party and how it is reshaping the political mapWhat’s happening to the Economic Freedom Fighters voteWhy parties like ActionSA, Inkatha Freedom Party and Patriotic Alliance could decide who governsWe also revisit the 2021 results in key metros to show how coalition politics has evolved — and why instability may actually increase after the next election, not decrease.The big question is no longer “who will win?” — but rather:who can actually form a stable government? Further reading:SRF polls: https://www.thecommonsense.co.za/pollsInside Politics: https://inside-politics.org

Gauteng Premier Panyaza Lesufi reshuffled his provincial government today, and the EFF has joined the Government of Provincial Unity. We unpack this, the increase in fuel prices and Helen Zille's ongoing campaign in Joburg for the 2026 Local Government Election.

We take a deep dive into the case against SAPS National Commissioner General Fannie Masemola; what are the consequences for him and the SAPS. We unpack this and more!

Gogo Aubrey Matshiqi joins us on SMWX for a much-anticipated breakdown of the latest at the Madlanga Commission of Inquiry and Parliament's Ad Hoc Committee. From Jermaine Prim's mystery letter to the defamation case between Kenny Kunene and Julius Malema. We unpack this all and more!

Julius Malema and Kenny Kunene are now locked in a high-stakes defamation battle — and the implications could be massive for South African politics. What started as claims on Podcast & Chill has now escalated into court proceedings, with serious allegations, sworn affidavits, and explosive testimony entering the public domain. From claims about visits to a controversial farm, to allegations of cash exchanges, this case intersects directly with the “Big Five cartel” narrative, the Madlanga Commission, and broader questions about power, politics, and influence in South Africa.

In this episode, we react to breaking news about the SAPS National Commissioner General Fannie Masemola being charged, Sergeant Nkosi’s testimony at the Madlanga Commission and Rivo Spies’ evidence too.

EFF Leader, Julius Malema, recently addressed an EFF voter registration rally and he took the opportunity to respond to some parts of Lt Gen Mkhwanazi's testimony before Parliament's Ad Hoc Committee. Malema swung at Lt Gen Mkhwanazi for allegedly involving him in his fights with Major Gen Khan. We explore this and other key moments in the last week of testimonies.

Lt Gen Mkhwanazi shared a potentially explosive but unverified prison letter with Parliament's Ad Hoc Committee and now we have it. The document which Mkhwanazi placed before the Ad Hoc Committee reportedly written by a former cellmate of Cat Matlala makes serious allegations that reach the highest levels of South African politics. It claims links between Matlala and President Cyril Ramaphosa, and names senior ministers Senzo Mchunu and Gayton McKenzie. McKenzie has already strongly denied these claims. So the question is, is this letter significant or just a desperate ploy from an unreliable source?  Viewers are strongly encouraged to watch and share the full video to ensure proper context. We discourage the circulation of isolated clips without a link to the full video, in the interest of fairness to all those implicated.

Cyril Ramaphosa submits written answers to the Ad Hoc Committee. We explore the questions which linger over his claims.

Mighti Jamie joins us on SMWX to unpack the fiery testimony of Lt Gen Mkhwanazi before Parliament's Ad Hoc Committee. Mkhwanazi revealed amongst other things; a letter received from Matlala's cell mate at C-Max, details about the meeting with Cat Matlala and Senona and other explosive revelations.

Sergeant Nkosi continued his testimony at the Madlanga Commission of Inquiry. He was questioned on his conversations with Steve Motsumi, his alleged tipoff to Matlala about the police raid at his home and his supposed fandom of Lt Gen Mkhwanazi. We also explore SAPS boss Gen Masemola's testimony in Parliament, particularly his explanation of his meeting with President Ramaphosa.

Sergeant Nkosi testified at the Madlanga Commission of Inquiry and was questioned on his relationships with Zee Nxumalo, Shadrack Sibiya and Cat Matlala. We unpack his testimony and what it means for the bigger picture. We also look at Thabo Bester's request to appear before Parliament's Ad Hoc Committee.

We've had more revelations coming out of the Madlanga Commission of Inquiry today as Maj Gen Shibiri continued his testimony. From luxury Gucci and LV purchases while taking loans from Cat Matlala; it was not a good day for the suspended Organized Crime boss. We also unpack new US ambassador Bozell's recent remarks and South Africa's reaction.

Major General Richard Shibiri testifies again at the Madlanga Commission. Shibiri was grilled about his relationship with Cat Matlala and Sergeant Nkosi, including a "loan" he received from Matlala for his son's vehicle repairs. Lets unpack this and more.

Suleiman Carrim continued his testimony at the Madlanga Commission today, in what will be remembered as one of the heated and most intense Commission sittings. We learned about additional R2M payments by Carrim to Matlala that he "supposedly" wasn't aware of, Justice Madlanga and Adv Bhana SC (Carrim's counsel) had an intense moment. In this humorous episode of SMWX we unpack it all and more. Ayeye!

Alleged businessman Suleiman Carrim appeared before the Madlanga Commission of Inquiry. Carrim was questioned on his relationship with Cat Matlala, Brown Mogotsi and Morgan Maumela, as well as transactions of money made among them.

In this SMWX interview, Nicholas Nyati opens up about his journey from a small town in the Eastern Cape to becoming one of the DA’s rising young leaders. He speaks about student politics, why he opposed university shutdowns during Fees Must Fall, his push for more grounded and people-centered leadership in the DA, and why he is standing for federal deputy chairperson. The conversation also dives into the DA’s upcoming leadership conference, policy debates on gambling, teenage pregnancy, and foreign policy, as well as Nyati’s views on Israel and Palestine, the GNU, and whether the DA would ever work with ActionSA in Johannesburg.

Sarah-Jane Trent testified in Parliament's Ad Hoc Committee until the wee hours of this morning, while Suleiman Carrim's advocate brought an application for his in-camera testimony on Monday. Patrice Motsepe, in an address to ARM shareholders, also addressed questions about whether he will be running for ANC leadership. We explore this and more in this analysis!

Day 6 of the escalating US–Iran regional war is raising fears of a wider global conflict. In this update, we break down the latest strikes across the Gulf, Iran’s retaliation targeting oil infrastructure and US assets, and the growing political backlash inside the United States. We also examine how the conflict is disrupting global energy flows through the Strait of Hormuz, the risk of a ground invasion in northwest Iran, and the wider economic consequences for countries from Europe to Asia — including South Africa.

Paul O'Sullivan appeared before Parliament's Ad Hoc Committee again today and apologized for walking out on the Ad Hoc previously. He was grilled by MPs on various other issues too. We unpack this and more!

We explore the latest developments in the US-Iran War and also have a look at global reactions, including from President Cyril Ramaphosa.

Suspended SAPS Organized Crime boss Maj Gen Richard Shibiri appeared before the Madlanga Commission of Inquiry today. Shibiri testified about his relationship with Cat Matlala and his work as the head of the Organized Crime unit, including some allegations made by Lt Gen Mkhwanazi. We explore his testimony and its links to various other witnesses that have testified before like Witness A and B.

We unpack the latest coming out of the geopolitical scene, in the conflict between the US and Iran. What are the consequences geopolitically and for South Africa? We explore this and much more. Ayeye!

In this SMWX interview, Rise Mzansi MP, Makashule Gana breaks down what “hard work” in Parliament actually looks like — from delivering an unusually high number of budget-vote speeches to juggling committee work in a tiny two-seat caucus. We also unpack his political journey, explain why South Africans prefer parties cooperating over fragmentation, and detail why they’ve become one of Parliament’s most consistent voices on gambling reform. Finally, Gana explains Rise Mzansi’s strategic role inside the GNU — and shares a personal goal: running Comrades again.

We unpack the US-Iran war that's happening and break down all that you need to know about it.

Musicians, Jesse Clegg and Msaki, join us on SMWX for a conversation about their new EP: Entropy which deals with themes of love and loss. We explore the music journey and what this EP means to them; we also explore the state of South Africa and its leadership crisis.

ANC MP Xola Nqola joins us on SMWX for a wide-ranging conversation on the work of the Ad Hoc Committee, ANC renewal and succession, President Ramaphosa's appearance before Ad Hoc Committee, the rot in SAPS and more!

Paul O Sullivan walked out of Parliament's Ad Hoc Committee while the evidence leaders were still busy asking him questions. Geordin Hill-Lewis and Solly Msimanga put their hats in for the DA leadership race. We unpack it all and more!

Finance Minister Enoch Godongwana presented the 2026 Budget Speech in Parliament yesterday. Members of Parliament share their reactions to the budget and its priorities.

Lt Gen Sibiya and Brown Mogotsi have both continued their testimonies at the Madlanga Commission and Ad Hoc Committee respectively. We unpack their testimonies and what it means for the bigger picture.

In this episode, SMWX sits down with Sol Phenduka — legendary broadcaster, musician, master of the pun, and co-host of Podcast and Chill. We get into Phenduka’s story before the spotlight: being raised by his mom, the grit of the early years, how hip-hop and production shaped his voice, and the hustle that took him from UJFM to the YFM pipeline. Then we unpack what people don’t see: the behind-the-scenes work, structure, and consistency that turned Podcast and Chill from “just chatting” into a full enterprise. To close, we touch on the state of the country — policing, corruption, consequences — and the frustration driving voters ahead of the next big election.

Former Zimbabwean President Robert Mugabe's son has been arrested in Hyde Park, Johannesburg for the attempted murder of his gardener. We unpack this story and the latest at the Madlanga Commission.

MK Party MP, Sibonelo Nomvalo, joins us for a conversation around Parliament's Ad Hoc Committee investigating Lt Gen Mkhwanazi's allegations, his life as a lawyer and setting up his own firm, allegations of SAPS capture by syndicates by Lt Gen Mkhwanazi and much more.

Lt Gen Sibiya, suspended SAPS Deputy National Commissioner, has began his testimony at the Madlanga Commission. Let's unpack his evidence and allegations he has made.

Legendary South African football coach, Dr Pitso Mosimane, joins us on SMWX for a conversation about his early life, footballing career as both a player and coach, the state of SA football and development, coaching education, and his future prospects. Ayeye!

In this explosive SMWX exclusive, Brown Mogotsi sits down for an unfiltered, in-depth interview following his appearance at the Madlanga Commission and ahead of his return to testify. Now a central figure in one of South Africa’s most controversial political and intelligence sagas, Mogotsi addresses the allegations against him, his role in crime intelligence structures, and the claims he has made about senior police and political leaders. This interview gives viewers the opportunity to hear directly from Brown Mogotsi, in his own words. As always, SMWX provides a platform for open dialogue and multiple perspectives on matters of national importance.

Dereleen James, ActionSA MP and member of Parliament's Ad Hoc Committee investigating Lt Gen Mkhwanazi's allegations, joins us on SMWX for a conversation around her political journey, choosing ActionSA as her political party, her activism, crime and corruption in SA, Parliament's Ad Hoc Committee and much more!

President Cyril Ramaphosa delivered his 9th State of the Nation Address at the Cape Town City Hall last night. Members of Parliament, Government Officials, Politicians share their reactions to the #SONA2026 and their thoughts about the plans the President shared for South Africa.

Howzit! Amahle 'jaxxofalltrades' Jaxa joins us for a conversation to reflect on her life, content creation and social media, the state of South Africa and where we're headed, President Ramaphosa's State of The Nation Address and more!

Legendary radio and television broadcaster, Bongani Bingwa, joins us for a wide-ranging conversation and reflection on his early life and introduction to media and broadcasting, his views about the state of South Africa, President Ramaphosa's legacy, revelations coming out of the Madlanga Commission and more!

Paul O'Sullivan will be appearing before Parliament's Ad Hoc Committee on Tuesday morning, after weeks of dodging a physical appearance in Parliament due to alleged safety concerns. We unpack this and the key questions he will be expected to answer. We also unpack today's sitting of the Madlanga Commission, where suspended Ekurhuleni Legal Services Head Adv Behari took the stand

Brigadier Matjeng appeared for her second day of testimony at the Madlanga Commission today. She gave more testimony about her supposed relationship with Cat Matlala and the gifts she would receive from him. We unpack this and more!

Brigadier Rachel Matjeng, Section Head for Criminal Records and Crime Scene Management in the SAPS Forensic Division gave shocking testimony today about her romantic relationship with Vusimusi Cat Matlala. We unpack her evidence and what this means in the greater scheme of things.

Prof JJ Tabane joins us for a candid conversation about the state of South Africa's rule of law. JJ explores the revelations coming out of the Madlanga Commission of Inquiry, Phala Phala ConCourt judgement, the relationship between the media and SA heads of state, John Steenhuisen's imminent withdrawal from the DA's leadership and much more!

John Steenhuisen, DA Federal Leader, is said to be making announcement soon about his withdrawal from the DA's leadership race in April this year at the DA's National Congress. We unpack this as well as some shocking revelations coming out of the Madlanga Commission of Inquiry.

Parliament's Ad Hoc Committee investigating Lt Gen Mkhwanazi's allegations is considering bringing President Ramaphosa to testify, while the Speaker puts the breaks on attempts by the Ad Hoc to summon Brown Mogotsi. Last night, at the Grammys, Trevor Noah roasted President Donald Trump about his alleged relationship and implication with Jeffrey Epstein. We unpack all of this and more in today's episode of SMWX!

The Madlanga Commission of Inquiry experienced more delays today as Sergeant Fannie Nkosi's lawyer made a submission for postponement at the Commission. This was due to his client receiving documents late and needing more time to prepare. The witness will testify next week, partially in-camera.

Former Statistician-General of South Africa, Dr Pali Lehohla, joins us for a candid conversation around the state of South Africa's economy and development. Dr Lehohla explores the idea of a sovereign wealth fund, a growth model that he has developed to save South Africa, inequality and poverty since 1994 and more!

Major General Senona, KZN Hawks Boss, has returned on to the Madlanga Commission of Inquiry to give further evidence about his relationship with Cat Matlala, why Matlala sent him Ramaphosa's confidential information and why he never reported Cat Matlala. Let's unpack this and more!

KZN Hawks Boss, Major General Senona testified before the Madlanga Commission of Inquiry today and amongst other things, made similar allegations to Brown Mogotsi about an alleged meeting between Vusimusi Cat Matlala and Lt Gen Mkhwanazi. Let's unpack this and what it means for the bigger picture.

Today, the Madlanga Commission resumed for the year and heard testimony from Acting KZN Deputy Provincial Commissioner, Anthony Gopaul and Witness E. They both dropped some shocking testimony about suspended police minister, Senzo Mchunu. Let's unpack all that and more!

EFF President, Julius Malema, appeared before the East London Magistrate's Court today for his pre-sentencing hearing in his fire-arm discharge case. We unpack the case and what it means for Malema, EFF and the South African political landscape.

SMWX Legend, Gogo Aubrey Matshiqi, joins us to explore what the political year ahead could look like. In this conversation, Gogo Matshiqi unpacks the WEF in Davos and the statements that have come from global leaders, Julius Malema's pre-sentencing hearing and its prospective consequences for SA's political landscape, Robert McBride's testimony in Parliament, the Phala Phala ConCourt judgment and more!

Julius Mkhwanazi, Suspended EMPD Deputy Police Chief, testified before Parliament's Ad Hoc Committee investigating Lt Gen Mkhwanazi's allegations. We unpack his relationship with Vusimusi Cat Matlala and the improper MOU that was for the supply of vehicles to EMPD by CAT VIP Protection Services, a company owned by Matlala.

Former IPID boss, Robert McBride, appears before Parliament's Ad Hoc Committee and answers questions from MPs. McBride is questioned about his relationship with Paul O Sullivan, his allegations against Lt Gen Mkhwanazi and more.

Former IPID head Robert McBride takes the stand in Parliament’s Ad Hoc Committee hearings on alleged police corruption and political interference. McBride faces intense questioning from MPs over accusations he colluded with private investigator Paul O’Sullivan to target senior police officials and undermine processes within law enforcement. The high-profile testimony comes as the committee grills witnesses in a broader probe into allegations of graft and misconduct in South Africa’s justice system. Viewers will get a close look at McBride’s responses, parliamentary cross-examination, and what his evidence could mean for accountability and policing reform.

Parliament's Ad Hoc Committee resumes hearings this week; Robert McBride (former IPID boss) and Julius Mkhwanazi (Suspended EMPD Deputy Police Chief) are expected to testify and be questioned by MPs. Ekurhuleni Mayor, Doctor Xhakaza, was allegedly placed at the crime scene of murdered DJ in 2023. We unpack this and more in today's analysis!

Former acting SAPS boss, Lt Gen Phahlane testified before Parliament's Ad Hoc Committee yesterday and in his evidence, he testified about his dismissal from office by former police minister Fikile Mbalula, his working relationship with Richard Mdluli and an alleged plot to overthrow him which included Robert McBride, Paul O Sullivan and other journalists in the media space.

Parliament's Ad Hoc Committee investigating Lt Gen Mkhwanazi's allegations resumes today and we preview the appearance of former acting SAPS National Commissioner, Khomotso Phahlane, and Crime Intelligence boss, Dumisani Khumalo. We also unpack the DA's investigation into John Steenhuisen and Deon George. They have been accused of bringing the party into disrepute.

Adv Muzi Sikhakhane, one of South Africa's best legal minds, joins us on SMWX to unpack his idea of a 'Black People's Convention' to reshape and transform South Africa and the livelihoods of the poor. He also unpacks a new constitution and previews his version of a preamble.

The Debrief Network's founding editor, Qaanitah Hunter, joins us to preview what to watch out for in the South African political landscape in 2026. From the DA's national congress where a new leader will be elected, to the Madlanga Commission, the appointment of the NPA's National Director of Public Prosecutions (NDPP), the Local Government Elections coming up and more!

In 2026, the Local Government Elections will be taking place in South Africa and in this episode we highlight the 5 important municipalities that will be hotly contested in this election. Who will emerge?

Global politics have been shaken in the last few days as US President Donald Trump has bombed Venezuela and captured its President Maduro. In this first analysis episode of 2026, Dr Sizwe Mpofu-Walsh unpacks what is happening and what it means for the global political landscape.

DA's Retief Odendaal is running for Nelson Mandela Bay Metro Mayor and he joins us on SMWX for a wide-ranging conversation on his background, law interest, experience as a councillor in the metro, DA internal dynamics and more.

Academic and author, Prof Bongani Ngqulunga, joins us on SMWX to explore his new book: Under Smuts' rule - a deep dive into Jan Smuts and his legacy as Prime Minister. Prof Ngqulunga has also authored: The Man Who Founded The ANC, a book about Pixley ka Isaka Seme.

After an eventful political year in 2025, we explore what to watch out for in 2026. The Madlanga Commission of Inquiry and Parliament's Ad Hoc Committee will resume and continue to hear witness testimonies, but also the DA is having its congress and will elect its new leadership. The Local Government Elections could be taking place between the end of 2026 or the beginning of 2027. Could we see a repeat of the budget drama like last year? We explore all of this and more, and what the consequences for South Africa are.

We asked you to submit your questions and in this episode, Sizwe answers them all! From football, to whether he'd consider running for political office; Sizwe unpacks some of the details you might not know!

In this episode, we take you behind the scenes and into the funniest moments on the SMWX set. From guests sleeping mid-interview, to many re-takes because the crew can't stop laughing, we bring you all of this from 2025.