First Take SA

The Democratic Alliance, DA has stepped up its fight against child rape by calling for a national probe into government departments that are failing to report and investigate cases. The party submitted evidence to the South African Human Rights Commission showing weak compliance with compulsory reporting laws, especially when pregnant girls under 16 appear in hospitals. We spoke to Angel Khanyile, MP and DA Spokesperson on Women, Youth & People with Disabilities.

The Minister in the Presidency for Women, Youth and Persons with Disabilities, Sindisiwe Chikunga, has rejected allegations that she helped family members get jobs in the public service. Her deputy Steve Letsike is also facing similar allegations. In a statement, Chikunga called the reports false and misleading, saying all public service appointments follow a legal recruitment process managed by accounting officers. She stressed that executive authorities do not appoint staff outside the law and that appointments are made on merit and transparency. We spoke to Public Service Commission (PSC) Commissioner, Advocate Neo Sephoti. The Commission is investigating the allegations levelled against the Ministers.

The Madlanga Commission is set for a pivotal week, with Investigating Directorate Against Corruption, IDAC head Advocate Andrea Johnson due to testify today. Senior IDAC investigator Brian Padayachee is also expected to appear this week. Johnson will respond to recent allegations questioning IDAC's conduct and independence, including claims she interfered in an assault case involving suspended Crime Intelligence Major-General Feroz Khan. We spoke to Wayne Duvenage, CEO of the Organisation Undoing Tax Abuse (OUTA).

A three-day inquest into the death of Anele Tembe starts this morning at the Cape Town Magistrate's Court.
The court will hear evidence on how Tembe died after falling from the 10th floor of the Pepperclub Hotel in April 2021.
Proceedings will also determine whether anyone can be held legally responsible and if further legal action should follow.
At the time of her death, Tembe was engaged to late South African rapper Kiernan 'AKA' Forbes - who was shot and killed In Durban in 2023. We spoke to Criminal Lawyer, Bruce Hendricks, Attorney at Hendricks-Harmse Attorneys.

Western Cape Minister of Cultural Affairs and Sport Ricardo Mackenzie has expressed deep sorrow over the deaths of footballer Jayden Adams and young rugby player Luqobo Makwedini. Mackenzie said the pair's passing is a huge blow to their families, teammates and South African sport as a whole. He highlighted how both athletes inspired many young people through their talent and dedication. We spoke to Western Cape Minister of Cultural Affairs and Sport Ricardo Mackenzie.