Coalition drama, Ramaphosa at the UN, Soweto Pride, and more stories on Point of View with Phemelo Motene
Thando Kubheka-Madulini
The Patriotic Alliance turned up the heat in Joburg’s coalition saga issuing a dramatic seven-day ultimatum over Kenny Kunene’s comeback.
Meanwhile, President Ramaphosa took centre stage at the UN, urging global leaders to act now on climate justice and economic inequality.
Back home, the Madlanga Commission heard damning testimony as Parliament was accused of turning a blind eye to alleged links between top officials and crime syndicates.
In Soweto, Pride will be more than a celebration, as many are set to take to the streets in a defiant march for dignity and empowerment in Black queer communities.
And we closed the week with a thoughtful profile of Sizwe Mpofu-Walsh, whose work is reshaping how young South Africans engage with politics and power.
Here are our Top 5 Stories of the Week:
1. 7 Days or We Walk? PA Draws a Line Over Kunene’s Comeback
In Johannesburg, coalition tensions are boiling over as the Patriotic Alliance (PA) issued a stern ultimatum to the ANC: reinstate Kenny Kunene to the City of Johannesburg mayoral committee within seven days, or risk a walkout from the ANC-led coalition and potentially the Government of National Unity. The demand follows Kunene’s clearance in an internal investigation into his controversial visit to the Sandton home of businessman KT Molefe, who was arrested on fraud-related charges in July. In a twist, it was PA leader Gayton McKenzie who suspended Kunene pending the probe but with no wrongdoing found, the party now insists on his immediate return. Kunene spoke to Phemelo about the political fallout. He says it’s not just about him, it’s about principle, fairness, and respect for coalition partners.
Listen to the full interview here:
2. Ramaphosa’s Rallying Cry at the UN: “The World Can’t Afford to Wait”
At the UN General Assembly in New York, President Cyril Ramaphosa delivered a powerful plea for urgent global action to tackle the crises threatening peace and progress across the globe. From climate change to crushing debt in the Global South, Ramaphosa warned that time is running out and called on world leaders to act in unity. With South Africa set to chair the G20 in November, Ramaphosa pledged that “Equality, Solidarity, and Sustainability” would be at the heart of the agenda. “Extreme weather is wiping out development gains,” he said, adding that African nations are being pushed further into poverty as they face food insecurity and mounting debt. Phemelo spoke to DAWN’s Advocacy Director, Raed Jarrar for in-depth analysis.
Listen to the full analysis here:
3. Parliament Under Fire at Madlanga Commission
The Madlanga Judicial Commission heard explosive testimony from SAPS legal head Petronella van Rooyen, who accused Parliament of failing in its oversight duties. Van Rooyen said lawmakers ignored serious allegations made by KZN Police Commissioner Nhlanhla Mkhwanazi, who claimed senior political figures, including Police Minister Senzo Mchunu had links to criminal networks. Her testimony raised urgent questions about political accountability and the role of Parliament in confronting allegations of corruption and state capture. Kaya News reporter Karinda Jagmohan joined Phemelo to provide a comprehensive update from the hearings.
Listen to the full interview here:
4. Soweto Pride: Marching for More Than Visibility
The Soweto Pride has returned with its 21st edition, a powerful intersection of protest, remembrance, and celebration. Under the theme “Key to Empowerment,” this year’s march aims to highlight black lesbian visibility, community healing, and the fight for safety and justice in township spaces. Activist and filmmaker Dr Bev Ditsie, a founding voice in the movement, reflected on the history of Soweto Pride, and the persistent challenges facing the queer community in post-apartheid South Africa.
Listen to the full interview here:
5. Sizwe Mpofu-Walsh: On Power, Parenthood & Shifting the Narrative
Academic, Podcaster, Activist, Father, Sizwe Mpofu-Walsh sat down with Phemelo for a wide-ranging conversation on how he’s reimagining political discussions through his hit platform SMWX. From navigating fatherhood to holding the powerful to account, this profile dives deep into the mind of one of SA’s sharpest young voices.
Listen to the full interview here:
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