First Take SA

When household budgets are stretched, the promise of a quick gambling win can seem tempting, but it can also put long-term financial security at risk. The latest 2026 Township Customer Experience Report found that 55% of stokvel members surveyed had gambled at least once in the past year, highlighting how financial pressure can influence even disciplined savers. So how do we prevent gambling from turning financial pressure into deeper debt, and what practical steps can households take to protect their savings? We spoke to Bertie Nel, Head of Financial Planning at Momentum.

The Constitutional Court is expected to deliver judgment today in the ANC's case against the IEC. The party is challenging the disqualification of its candidate lists in six municipalities, which affects one hundred and eighty one councillor candidates. The ruling will have major implications for the November 4th Local Government Elections. For more on this, we spoke toPolitical analyst, Dr. Croucamp.

The March and March Movement says it has learnt that its leader Jacinta Ngobese Zuma and SA First Forum Acting CEO Xolani Zuma will be arrested before Friday. The Movement claims the arrest warrant issued by the NPA is politically motivated and aimed at causing unrest ahead of the November local government elections. It has called on President Cyril Ramaphosa to distance himself from what it terms political interference. The NPA is yet to comment on the allegations. For more, we spoke to March and March Movement National Spokesperson, Sandile Dube.

The Concerned Citizens of South Africa is calling for a national shutdown on Monday over record fuel prices. Inland petrol reached thirty rand and twenty-five cents a litre in October, putting pressure on households. The movement wants government to cut fuel taxes and levies to bring prices down.We spoke to Concerned Citizens of South Africa national Organiser, Ntokozo Mkhize.

The Gauteng Liquor Traders Association is set to hold a peaceful protest in Johannesburg today following the deadly Wedela tavern shooting. Eighteen people were killed on the West Rand, raising fresh concerns about safety at taverns. The association says it will call for stronger action against illegal firearms, organised crime and mass shootings. We spoke to Gauteng Liquor Traders Association spokesperson, Jongikhaya Kraai.