Thando Kubheka
Tensions flared in South Africa this past week as the DA gave President Ramaphosa a 48-hour ultimatum following the sudden firing of Deputy Minister Andrew Whitfield, threatening the stability of the Government of National Unity.
Over in Johannesburg, drama unfolded in the council chambers as Mayor Dada Morero survived a motion of no confidence, while ActionSA’s Council Speaker Nobuhle Mthembu was shown the door.
Meanwhile, on the global stage, U.S. President Donald Trump slammed both Israel and Iran amid escalating tensions in the Middle East.
In Nairobi, heartbreaking scenes emerged after protests turned deadly, leaving 16 dead and the city in flames.
And amidst the chaos, we found inspiration in young leader Chrispin Phiri, whose sharp legal mind and rising political profile signal hope for the future.
Here are the top stories that moved the nation and the world:
1. Ultimatum drama: DA dares Ramaphosa over Whitfield firing
The DA has thrown down the gauntlet, giving President Cyril Ramaphosa just 48 hours to axe several ANC ministers and deputy ministers implicated in corruption…or face serious consequences. This bold move comes in the wake of Ramaphosa’s surprise dismissal of DA Deputy Minister Andrew Whitfield from the Government of National Unity. The Presidency confirmed the sacking, casting doubt over the GNU’s future. Phemelo unpacks the fallout with DA spokesperson Karabo Khakhau.
Listen to the full conversation here:
2. Power shuffle in Joburg: Morero survives, Mthembu out
Tensions ran high in the Joburg council chambers last week. While Mayor Dada Morero narrowly held onto his seat, ActionSA’s Nobuhle Mthembu was ousted as Council Speaker in a dramatic vote. The numbers speak volumes: 144 voted to keep Morero, 75 opposed, and 43 abstained. Meanwhile, Mthembu was removed by a landslide 212 votes. Phemelo gets reactions from ActionSA’s Marcel Coutriers, the Patriotic Alliance’s Kenny Kunene, and DA’s Belinda Echeozonjoku.
Listen to the full conversation here:
3. U.S. President blasts both Israel & Iran
President Donald Trump isn’t pulling any punches. Amid renewed conflict between Israel and Iran, Trump voiced frustration at both sides – calling out Israel’s rocket retaliation and slamming Iran for its attack on Al Udeid Air Base in Qatar. All this, despite claims the ceasefire technically still holds. Phemelo unpacks what this means for U.S. foreign policy and Middle East stability with expert guest Sarah Leah Whitson, Executive Director of DAWN.
Listen to the full conversation here:
4. 16 dead as protests turn deadly
Nairobi is reeling after violent protests left at least 16 people dead and parts of the city in ruins. Buildings smouldered and businesses were gutted following widespread looting and arson. The chaos erupted during youth-led demonstrations demanding justice for blogger Albert Ojwang, who allegedly died at the hands of police. Thousands took to the streets, echoing last year’s deadly Gen Z tax protests that claimed over 60 lives. Phemelo speaks to SABC Channel Africa Correspondent Luke Wasike for the latest from Kenya.
Listen to the full conversation here:
5. Young, smart & rising: Chrispin Phiri in the spotlight
He’s sharp, eloquent, and on the rise. Chrispin Phiri, Spokesperson to the Minister of International Relations and one of the Mail & Guardian’s 200 Young South Africans, joins Phemelo in studio for an inspiring profile. With a legal mind honed at UWC and a growing voice in government, Phiri shares insights on government communications, leadership, and the power of youth in policy-making.
