Democracy Unplugged

What can we learn from 2025 to anticipate where the world is going next year? In this year-end conversation, State of the Nation host Mike Sham joins Phumi Mashigo for an unfiltered assessment of our political reality. This conversation cuts through the spin to examine local and global happenings, asking what the year truly revealed about accountability and the political path going forward. The Burning Platform

What will it take to turn South Africa’s municipal crisis around? Can local government still be rescued before the 2026 elections? In this follow-up episode of Democracy Unplugged, moderator Phumi Mashigo brings together panelists from multiple political parties to confront the question head-on. Featuring Afrika Mayibuye Movement’s Sydney Baloyi, PAC’s Jaki Seroke, GOOD’s Sarah Mabotsa and Action SA’s Kholofelo Morodi. The Burning Platform

Artificial Intelligence (AI) is re-writing the rules. Are we ready? In this episode of Democracy Unplugged Timothy Maurice Webster leads a dynamic conversation with AI experts George Nichas, Callan Abrahams and Mushambi Mutuma on how AI is reshaping work, creativity, governance, and daily life. The Burning Platform

What does South Africa need now, according to Floyd Shivambu? And will he be the answer to our political problems? Phumi Mashigo unpacks the evolution behind the headlines with him - from the ANC Youth League to the EFF, a stint in MK, and now his role in shaping the Afrika Maibuye Movement. Is this reinvention or conviction in motion? Floyd speaks candidly about ideological consistency, political disillusionment, organisational decay, and why he believes South Africa still needs a true revolutionary movement. If you've ever wondered what motivates a strategist to abandon comfort for controversy, this conversation is essential listening. The Burning Platform

Johannesburg is falling apart - power cuts, potholes, broken pipes, waste piling up, and corruption choking the city that once symbolised South Africa’s promise. But one of the country’s most formidable political figures says she can fix it. Phumi Mashigo sits down with Helen Zille, the former Mayor of Cape Town, Western Cape Premier, and now 2026 Johannesburg Mayoral candidate for the Democratic Alliance. She’s one of the most polarising voices in South African politics, and the question that everyone’s been whispering is asked: Can she really save Johannesburg? The Burning Platform