First Take SA

South Africa has confirmed four new mpox cases, bringing the number recorded since the beginning of 2026 to 26. The Western Cape accounts for 18 cases, including 16 linked to local transmission, while cases have also been recorded in Gauteng, the Eastern Cape, the Free State and KwaZulu-Natal. Health authorities are urging South Africans to remain vigilant and seek medical attention if they develop symptoms. We speak now to Foster Mohale, spokesperson from the Department of Health about the latest cases, the risk of further transmission and what the public needs to know.

Former President Thabo Mbeki is scheduled to appear before the TRC Cases Inquiry on the 19th and 20th. This after his bid, together with that of former President Jacob Zuma, to have Inquiry Chairperson Justice Sisi Khampepe recuse herself, failed. Mbeki's testimony is highly anticipated, having received the final TRC report in 2003, the date from which the Inquiry to determine whether there were attempts to stop the prosecution of TRC cases begins. Busi Bopela reports.

Today marks exactly 40 years since the tragic plane crash that claimed the life of former Mozambican President Samora Machel and 34 others. Machel was the first President of independent Mozambique. He is also described as one of the African leaders who dedicated their lives to anti-colonialism. Both South Africa and Mozambique are to commemorate the tragedy in Mbuzini Village in Nkomazi, Mpumalanga. SABC reporter, Mthobisi Mkhaliphi has more.

National Police Commissioner General Fannie Masemola is officially back at the helm of the South African Police Service today. This follows President Cyril Ramaphosa's decision to lift his precautionary suspension after the formal withdrawal of all financial misconduct charges against him. Masemola is hitting the ground running at the Tshwane Academy, convening an urgent high-level strategy session with all provincial and deputy commissioners this morning. Masemola will also address the media today. We spoke to Bethuel Nkuna, President of the Independent Policing Union Of South Africa, IPUSA.

AfriForum has asked the Khampepe Commission for permission to cross-examine former President Thabo Mbeki. The lobby group wants its private prosecution head, Advocate Gerrie Nel, to question Mbeki on alleged political interference to block TRC-related prosecutions. This relates to the 1985 alleged ANC landmine attack near Musina that killed Kobie van Eck and her two children. Mbeki is set to testify before the Commission today and tomorrow. We spoke to AfriForum CEO, Kallie Kriel.