Thando Kubheka

A wave of emotion, reflection, and political turbulence gripped South Africa this past week.
The sudden passing of former Deputy President David Mabuza cast a solemn shadow across the nation, prompting tributes to a man once known as “The Cat” for his political survival instincts.
In Johannesburg, the halls of power echoed with song and celebration as Margaret Arnolds reclaimed her seat as Speaker, following intense political wrangling.
But heartbreak struck in Germiston, where a three-year-old girl’s life was tragically cut short by a dog attack – highlighting the urgent need for stronger community safety measures.
In Soweto, the struggle for dignity and shelter played out as nearly 300 families braced for eviction from a long-abandoned school they now call home.
Amid it all, the National Arts Festival offered a moment of light and legacy, celebrating 50 years of creative expression and resilience.
Here are our Top 5 Stories of the Week:
1. David Mabuza Passes Away at 64 -Tributes Pour In
The nation is mourning the loss of former Deputy President David Mabuza, whose death was confirmed by ANC Secretary General Fikile Mbalula on X. Revered for his political influence and quiet authority, Mabuza served as South Africa’s second-in-command from 2018 to 2023. Phemelo reflects on his legacy with ANC NEC Member Donald Selamolela.
Listen to the full interview:
2. Margaret Arnolds Re-elected As Speaker in Joburg Council Shake-Up
Margaret Arnolds is back as Speaker of Council in Johannesburg, ousting her predecessor in a heated no-confidence motion. With emotional scenes on the council floor and tense political party battles behind the scenes, Phemelo unpacks the full story with Kaya News’ Karinda Jagmohan, ActionSA’s Tshepo Mposula, and the DA’s Alex Christians.
Listen to the full interview:
3. Dog Attack Horror: 3-Year-Old Girl Killed in Germiston
A community is shaken after a toddler was mauled to death by dogs in the Marathon informal settlement. The tragic incident has sparked fury, with residents demolishing the dog owner’s shack. Phemelo speaks to local councillor Geoffrey Mthembu about the aftermath and urgent calls for action.
Listen to the full interview:
4. “We Won’t Leave”: Nearly 300 Families Face Eviction in Diepkloof
Tensions are rising in Soweto as nearly 300 residents who’ve turned an abandoned school into a home since 2018 now face eviction. With no electricity, limited sanitation, and a looming court order, Phemelo dives into the legal and human side of the story with Gauteng Infrastructure spokesperson Theo Nkonki.
Listen to the full interview:
5. Celebrating 50 Years of the National Arts Festival
In a moment of joy and reflection, Phemelo sits down with Monica Newton, CEO of the National Arts Festival, to celebrate five decades of creativity, community, and artistic power. With Standard Bank’s 41-year partnership still going strong, the Festival remains a beating heart of South African culture.
Listen to the full interview:



