Thando Kubheka-Madulini
From explosive tensions on our streets to high-stakes battles in boardrooms and courtrooms, South Africa has been anything but quiet.
The nation reeled after the shocking murder of an e-hailing driver outside Maponya Mall, prompting a strong response from taxi association SANTACO.
In Tshwane, a bitter zoning dispute with Kleinfontein residents has escalated into a legal showdown.
Meanwhile, Tourism Minister Patricia de Lille rocked the sector by firing the entire SA Tourism board, a move that’s sparked backlash and accusations of political overreach.
Beyond our borders, tragedy struck in Sudan as Doctors Without Borders suspended operations after a deadly hospital attack amid a raging cholera crisis.
And rounding off the week on a personal and powerful note, actress Rami Chuene sat down with Phemelo to reflect on 50 years of life, art, and unapologetic authenticity. It’s been a week of reckoning, resistance, and real talk.
Here are our Top 5 Stories of the Week:
1. SANTACO Vows Action After Brutal Maponya Mall Attack
The brutal killing of Mthokozisi Mvelase, an e-hailing driver outside Maponya Mall, has sent shockwaves throughout the country. His car was torched after the attack, sparking furious protests in Soweto. Taxi association SANTACO has condemned the violence, vowing to expel any members involved. Phemelo spoke to SANTACO spokesperson Rebecca Phala about their next steps to address taxi related violence in the country and rebuild trust.
Listen to the full interview here:
2. Zoning War Brews Between Tshwane and Kleinfontein
The City of Tshwane is taking Kleinfontein to court over an outdated land-use application, demanding they reapply under current laws. Kleinfontein calls it a waste of money and an aggressive move, saying they’ve submitted all necessary reports. With 17 settlements flagged by the city, this legal standoff could set a precedent. Phemelo chats to both sides, MMC for Human Settlements in the City of Tshwane Aaron Maluleka and Kleinfotein Spokesperson, Dannie de Beer to unpack to unpack the issue.
Listen to the full discussion here:
3. Tourism Shake-Up: De Lille Dismisses Entire SA Tourism Board
Tourism Minister Patricia de Lille has fired the full SA Tourism board, accusing them of holding an illegal meeting and making rogue decisions. But not everyone agrees. Watchdog group OUTA has accused her of political interference. Phemelo gets reaction from Parliament’s Tourism Chair Ronalda Nalumangoand and OUTA’s CEO Wayne Duvenage to get their reaction to the sudden shake up.
Listen to the full interview here:
4. Hospital Attack Halts Life-Saving Work in War-Torn Sudan
A horrifying assault on Zalingei Hospital has forced Doctors Without Borders (MSF) to pull out, just as a cholera crisis grips the region. Armed men stormed the facility, killing one person and injuring several, including a health worker. A grenade exploded outside the ER. MSF says it won’t return until staff safety is guaranteed. Phemelo hears from MSF’s Sudan coordinator Liesbeth Aelbrecht about the human toll of this latest blow.
Listen to the full discussion here:
5. Rami Chuene Turns 50: “I’m Owning Every Bit of It”
Beloved actress and unapologetic truth-teller Rami Chuene joins Phemelo for a heartfelt sit-down. With over two decades on screen, she reflects on fame, family, ageing, and what keeps her fire burning. From The Queen to Isono, Rami’s journey is one of resilience, reinvention, and raw honesty. Don’t miss this soul-nourishing chat with one of SA’s most iconic talents.
Listen to the full interview here:
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