SMWX

SMWX

A journey into the heart of South Africa politics, through interviews and analysis, with your guide Sizwe Mpofu-Walsh. Ayeye!
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Episode's summary

This episode examines the legal dispute between the ANC and the IEC regarding the failure to submit candidate lists by the deadline due to alleged technical glitches. The debate centers on whether 'submission' requires the final clicking of a button or merely having data present on the system, noting the potential impact on ward and proportional representation candidates. The discussion also explores the ANC's legal battle and the potential for court rulings based on IEC technical evidence. Additionally, it delves into internal administrative crises within the ANC, including issues with mayoral candidates and qualifications that may deepen party divisions.

Chapters

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Highlights

the technical glitches should not in the end deprive our people from being able to vote for their candidates.

00:04:30 · President Ramaphosa expresses his hope that a solution will be found so that voters are not disenfranchised by system errors.

If the name is left off that list, it means that specific person cannot take up that seat. So it doesn't hurt the party, but it hurts the person who's been left off

00:06:59 · The host explains the impact of missing names on proportional representation lists compared to ward candidates.

Submission means submission, including clicking the button.

00:13:09 · The host highlights the IEC's strict stance on the definition of a completed submission.

If they can submit credible evidence that there was no glitch, for me, that's gonna be the end of the matter.

00:19:16 · The speaker explains that the outcome of the legal challenge regarding candidate submissions depends entirely on whether the IEC can prove their system functioned correctly.

So when you get elected to that position, you submit to the quality and the characteristics of that position, not your damn qualities.

00:22:50 · This quote from Mondli Ngubane emphasizes the need for leaders to adhere to the standards of their office rather than their personal attributes.

Episodes

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ANC drags IEC to court

This episode examines the legal dispute between the ANC and the IEC regarding the failure to submit candidate lists by the deadline due to alleged technical glitches. The debate centers on whether 'submission' requires the final clicking of a button or merely having data present on the system, noting the potential impact on ward and proportional representation candidates. The discussion also explores the ANC's legal battle and the potential for court rulings based on IEC technical evidence. Additionally, it delves into internal administrative crises within the ANC, including issues with mayoral candidates and qualifications that may deepen party divisions.

08 Sep 2026
666-

ANC drops the ball on 'late' candidate lists?

This episode of SMWX examines recent high-profile legal and political developments in South Africa. The analysis covers the dismissal of a Section 174 application for former Minister of Defense Nosiviwe Mapisa-Nkundla, detailing corruption allegations involving SANDF contracts and the use of coded language in WhatsApp messages to request cash payments. The presenter also investigates the African National Congress's failure to meet IEC deadlines for municipal candidate submissions, noting the potential absence of key candidates from ballots in several districts. Additionally, the episode explores ongoing court proceedings regarding Vusimzike Matlala and the Medicare 24 corruption case, specifically focusing on allegations of a planned prison escape from Edenville Hospital. The discussion touches upon the legal complexities of hearsay evidence and the broader implications for upcoming commissions of inquiry.

07 Sep 2026
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Lord Peter Hain unpacks: Mkhwanazi, Apartheid, Trump, Ramaphosa, ANC, Jacob Zuma, Madlanga, Big 5

Lord Peter Hain discusses his activist roots and the legacy of apartheid, reflecting on how the corruption inherent in the apartheid system was inherited by the ANC and exploring a global pattern where liberation movements often become corrupt once they gain power. The conversation also examines the global nature of corruption, highlighting how international corporations and financial hubs facilitate the movement of looted money from developing nations. The discussion further explores the decline of leadership quality, contrasting the integrity of figures like Nelson Mandela with modern, self-interested leaders. The speakers analyze how neoliberalism has fueled global inequality and political instability, leading to the rise of populism. Finally, they explore South Africa's path to recovery following the Zondo commission, emphasizing the need for institutional reform and effective law enforcement.

06 Sep 2026
664-

Minister Thembi Simelane unpacks: TRC Inquiry, Nokuthula Simelane, Steve Biko, NPA, Apartheid

Minister Tembi Simelane discusses the decades-long struggle to find justice for her sister, Nokutela Simelane, who disappeared during apartheid. She details the failures of the TRC and the NPA to conduct proper investigations, the harrowing details of her sister's torture, and the ongoing legal battles against the perpetrators. The conversation explores the systemic failures of both apartheid and post-apartheid governments in providing closure. The speaker reflects on the establishment of a foundation to preserve Nokutela's legacy and the profound emotional complexity of seeking truth while navigating high-ranking roles within the state.

05 Sep 2026
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Unpacking: Ramaphosa Phala Phala case | 2026 Elections | "Big 5" cartel

The hosts examine the legal battle in the Western Cape High Court regarding President Ramaphosa's impeachment committee, analyzing arguments over judicial jurisdiction and potential 'Stalingrad' delay tactics. The discussion explores the implications of presidential accountability and conflicts of interest involving private business interests. The conversation further delves into the broader South African political landscape, focusing on the lack of accountability within the Government of National Unity (GNU) and the intense competition between the ANC and DA in key metros. Finally, the episode addresses the systemic neglect of rural South Africa, where political focus remains on economic hubs, leading to governance failures and unreliable polling data in less populated regions.

05 Sep 2026