listen to METRO FM Talk with Faith Mangope
METRO FM Talk with Faith Mangope
AFTER 8 IS AFTER 8: “What’s Your Secret Side Hustle or Hidden Life?”
You spend eight hours a day sitting next to someone at work thinking you know them... meanwhile that same person could be body-slamming strangers in a wrestling ring on Saturday nights. Imagine finding out your quiet HR manager enters arenas wearing a cape and calling himself “The Destroyer.” Suddenly those Monday meetings make a lot more sense. Today we’re diving into the secret lives people live after hours — because some people clock out of the office and straight into an entirely different world. We’ll be chatting to two professionals who are also wrestlers when the work day ends, and we want to know from YOU: what’s your hidden side hustle or double life that your coworkers would never expect?
Fadiel Adams Arrested: Political Targeting or Obstruction of Justice?
The arrest of Fadiel Adams has sparked major political controversy after the Political Killings Task Team linked him to allegations of fraud and obstructing the course of justice. Police claim Adams interfered with investigations into the murder of former ANC Youth League leader Sindiso Magaqa by allegedly engaging with a convicted hitman during a critical stage of the investigation. But Adams insists he is being politically targeted, accusing police of intimidation, secrecy, and running a smear campaign against him. The outspoken NCC leader says he feared for his life and believes he would not have made it safely to KwaZulu-Natal had he been arrested quietly. Tonight we unpack the claims, the politics, and the growing tensions between Adams and law enforcement. BRUCE HENDRICKS - FROM HENDRICKS HARMSE ATTORNEYS- AND THE LEGAL REPRESENTATIVE OF FADIEL ADAMS
Tomorrow, all eyes will be on the Constitutional Court as it finally delivers judgment in the explosive Phala Phala saga ( ATM leader Vuyo Zungula )
Tomorrow, all eyes will be on the Constitutional Court as it finally delivers judgment in the explosive Phala Phala saga — a case that has hovered over President Cyril Ramaphosa for nearly four years. At the centre of it all: questions about millions of rand in foreign cash stolen from the president’s Limpopo game farm, whether Parliament failed in its oversight role, and whether the president should have faced an impeachment inquiry. The case was brought by the African Transformation Movement and the Economic Freedom Fighters after MPs voted against adopting the Section 89 panel report. Tonight… we speak to ATM leader Vuyo Zungula about what’s at stake politically, constitutionally, and for public trust in government. More than 500 days after arguments were heard, South Africa may finally get clarity on one of the country’s biggest political scandals. The Constitutional Court is expected to hand down judgment tomorrow in the Phala Phala matter — the legal challenge brought by the African Transformation Movement and the Economic Freedom Fighters over Parliament’s decision not to pursue impeachment proceedings against President Cyril Ramaphosa. The controversy stems from the theft of large sums of US dollars from the president’s farm and allegations of a cover-up involving state resources. Joining us now is ATM leader Vuyo Zungula to unpack why his party took this fight all the way to the apex court — and what outcome they’re hoping for.
AFTER 8 IS AFTER 8: Positive Fatherhood Critical in Dealing with the Country's Violence Crisis
Positive, consistent fatherhood and the presence of male role models are being positioned as critical, preventative tools in tackling South Africa's high rates of violence. With over 60% of South African children growing up without their biological fathers, initiatives such as the Heartlines Fathers Matter campaign highlight that "social fathers"—uncles, grandfathers, and mentors—are essential in modeling non-violent behavior, empathy, and emotional control for the next generation. That’s what we’re discussing this evening in our After 8 segment as we look to unpack the role of fathers and father figures in reducing violent behaviour in the country.
“Transformation Code” in The Legal Profession Challenged
The Legal Sector Charter Council says the Legal Sector Code is critical for transformation within the judiciary and legal profession. This comes as several major law firms, including Norton Rose Fulbright (Solidarity Deneys-Reitz), Webber Wentzel, Werksmans Attorneys and Bowmans, challenge the code in the Pretoria High Court. The firms argue that the code, which has been gazetted, is “flawed” and risks harming broad-based transformation in the legal fraternity, rather than enhancing it.
S.A’s Disease Spread Prevention Systems Questioned
Gaps or breaches in disease screening protocols at the country’s ports of entry have been questioned by parliament following the identification of a number cases of the hantavirus in South Africa, which has already claimed at least one life in the country. Responding to Parliament’s Portfolio Committee - Health Minister, Dr Aaron Motsoaledi emphasised that human-to-human transmission is rare and requires close contact. The committee was also informed that, based on available scientific evidence presented by the department and experts, rodents in South Africa do not carry the Andes strain of hantavirus that has been detected through lab tests. MPs also raised concerns about how a passenger who later deteriorated was able to travel without triggering precautionary measures, and whether sufficient communication protocols were followed between transport operators and health authorities in the country.
AFTER 8 IS AFTER 8: South African Owned Township Businesses in Crisis
Spaza shop associations and township entrepreneurship forums are expressing urgent concerns regarding the R500 million Spaza Shop Support Fund and this evening we look at some of the challenges faced by locals in building and maintaining spaza shops, as well as, the support needed in order to bolster businesses owned by South Africans in townships.
Mixed Reactions to Manamela Placing NSFAS Under Administration
Higher Education Minister Buti Manamela’s decision to place the National Student Financial Aid Scheme (NSFAS) under administration has been met with criticism from student bodies, opposition parties, labour unions and civil society organisations. Manamela has defended the move, saying it is necessary to ensure the long-term sustainability of the financial aid scheme. He has appointed Hlengani Mathebula as administrator.
R800 Million Reportedly Spent on Suspended Public Officials
The Portfolio Committee on Public Service and Administration has added its reaction to a report by the Sunday Times that hundreds of public servants remain suspended with full pay, costing the state about R800 million a year. The Chairperson of the committee, Mr Jan de Villiers, says the committee will request the Minister of Public Service and Administration to brief the committee on the reasons disciplinary matters remain unresolved beyond prescribed timeframes and the corrective steps the department is taking.
AFTER 8 IS AFTER 8: Tobacco Bill or Criminal Windfall?
South Africa’s proposed Tobacco Control Bill has ignited a heated national debate, with critics arguing that while it is designed as a public health measure, it may unintentionally strengthen the country’s already booming illicit cigarette trade. The Bill is described not as a solution to smoking, but as a “gift to criminals” , warning that stricter regulations, packaging controls, advertising bans, and increased restrictions could push more consumers into the black market rather than reducing demand. This, critics argue, risks expanding the power and profitability of organised criminal syndicates who already dominate the illegal tobacco supply chain. At the heart of the debate is a deeper tension: should South Africa prioritise aggressive public health regulation to reduce smoking rates, or focus on strengthening enforcement first to prevent illicit trade from flourishing? With estimates suggesting that the majority of cigarettes in circulation may already be illegal, opponents of the Bill argue that regulation without enforcement capacity could further weaken the formal industry, cost jobs, and reduce tax revenue. Supporters of the Bill, however, maintain that stronger controls are necessary to protect public health, reduce smoking prevalence, and align South Africa with global tobacco control standards,insisting that enforcement challenges should not delay essential legislation. The question now driving public discourse is whether the Tobacco Bill will reduce harm or unintentionally deepen the influence of the very criminal networks it seeks to undermine.
STATE OF JOURNALISM IN SA - THE BROWN ENVELOPE ( Reggy Moalusi - SANEF EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR )
A high-stakes investigation by the Special Investigating Unit has placed prominent journalist Makhudu Sefara at the centre of allegations involving the misappropriation of National Lottery funds, money intended to uplift vulnerable communities. In response, Sefara has stepped aside from his leadership roles at both the Sunday Times and the South African National Editors’ Forum, maintaining his innocence while investigations proceed. But this story goes beyond individual accountability. It touches on deeper fractures within the media industry, including a contentious history between Sunday World and GroundUp over lottery-linked advertising and editorial integrity. With SANEF defending its past processes and critics questioning whether enough scrutiny was applied earlier, the unfolding probe raises urgent questions: Can the media effectively police itself? And what happens when those who shape public narratives become subjects of investigation themselves?
Will South Africans cope with the fuel hike? ( Ndumiso Khubeka- Economist )
Further financial pressure is on the cards for consumers come this Wednesday after the Mineral and Petroleum Resources Department announced an increase in fuel prices. Both grades of petrol will increase by R3, 27c a litre, while diesel will increase by R6, 19c a litre. The price adjustment comes as a short-term relief measure to cushion consumers, and motorists remain in place. Fuel levies have been reduced by R3 per litre on petrol and R3, 93c per litre on diesel. The department’s spokesperson, Robert Maake, says new prices will take effect from 6 May 2026. “Both grades of petrol will increase by R3, 27c a litre. Diesel will increase by R6, 19c a litre. Eliminating paraffin will increase by R4, 22c per litre. The maximum retail price of LP gas will increase by R5, 7c in housing and by R5, 78c in the Western Cape. Slate levy of R1, 23c will be implemented in the price structures of petrol and diesel, with effect from the 6th of May 2026.”
AFTER 8 IS AFTER 8: Love or Fear? Why “Forever” Feels So Heavy Today
“Forever” used to sound romantic. Now, for many people... it sounds terrifying. Think about it—how many times have you heard someone say, “I’m just not ready”, or “I don’t want anything serious right now”? Are we really not ready... or are we just scared? Scared of choosing the wrong person. Scared of losing ourselves. Scared of repeating the same heartbreak we promised we’d never go through again. In a world where options feel endless and independence is everything, has commitment started to feel like a trap instead of a choice? And here’s the real question tonight: are we afraid of love—or are we afraid of what love demands from us? Join the conversation. Call us, send a voice note—be honest. Is forever something you still believe in... or something you’re quietly avoiding?
Trusted to Heal, Accused of Harm: Can Patients Still Feel Safe in Our Healthcare System?
In a case that is both deeply disturbing and profoundly unsettling, a 69-year-old doctor in Madadeni, KwaZulu-Natal, has been arrested following allegations that he sexually assaulted multiple female patients under the guise of medical care. According to police, the alleged abuse took place over several months inside a hospital setting — a space meant to offer safety, dignity, and healing. The arrest, carried out by the Family Violence, Child Protection and Sexual Offences Unitworking alongside local officers, followed a whistleblower’s tip-off and the courage of victims who came forward to open cases. But beyond the specifics of this case lies a far more troubling question: how does abuse of this nature go undetected in institutions meant to protect the vulnerable? And what does it say about oversight, reporting mechanisms, and the power dynamics between patients and medical professionals? As the suspect prepares to appear before the Madadeni Magistrate’s Court, we ask whether enough is being done to safeguard patients — and whether others who may have suffered in silence will now feel empowered to come forward.
AFTER 8 IS AFTER 8: Young, White, and Reckoning with Apartheid: Does Apology Still Matter?
A growing number of young white South Africans are starting to interrogate their identity and role in a post-apartheid society, sparking difficult but necessary conversations about history and responsibility. For some, this reflection has led to a firm view that white South Africans should openly acknowledge and apologise for the enduring legacy of apartheid. The debate is gaining momentum across social media and public platforms, reopening questions about accountability, reconciliation, and inherited guilt. We speak to Pieter Kriel, who is part of this emerging voice, to explore why he believes apology is important, what it means for younger generations, and how these views are being received in a country still shaped by its past.
R12 Billion Border Overhaul: Real Reform or Another Costly Fix? ( Border Management Authority Commissioner, Dr Michael Masiapato )
The South African government is betting big on its borders, with a R12.5 billion plan to overhaul six of the country’s busiest land ports of entry — from Beitbridge Border Post to Lebombo Border Post — in what Home Affairs Minister Leon Schreiber calls a “game-changer” for trade, security, and efficiency. These crossings handle more than 80% of South Africa’s cross-border movement, yet they’ve long been plagued by congestion, outdated infrastructure, and vulnerabilities to crime. The question, however, is whether this massive investment will truly fix the problem — or simply modernise a system that has historically struggled with corruption, inefficiency, and coordination failures. Can infrastructure alone tighten border control and boost economic performance, or are deeper systemic issues being overlooked?
R1.6 Billion Textbook Tender Under Scrutiny ( LUKHANYO VANGQA - DEPARTMENT SPOKESPERSON )
South Africa’s education system is once again under the spotlight tonight, as questions mount over a multi-billion rand textbook procurement process. Basic Education Minister Siviwe Gwarube has now requested that Finance Minister Enoch Godongwana initiate an urgent investigation into alleged irregularities surrounding a R1.6 billion tender aimed at supplying foundation phase textbooks for Grades 1 to 3. The tender forms part of the department’s broader “foundations for learning” campaign, introduced to strengthen literacy and numeracy in early education. At the centre of the controversy is Lighthouse Publishers (Pty) Ltd, which was awarded a significant portion of the contract — reportedly 26% of all approved titles — despite claims that the company was only registered shortly before the tender briefing. Out of more than 6 000 approved textbook titles submitted by 19 publishers, concerns have now been raised about how the procurement process was conducted and whether proper procedures were followed. While the company has denied any wrongdoing, the matter has sparked calls for greater transparency in how public education funds are allocated.
AFTER 8 IS AFTER 8: The 24-Hour Myth: When Waiting Costs Lives in Missing Persons Cases
We take on one of the most dangerous misconceptions in missing persons cases in South Africa — the so-called “24-hour rule.” Many still believe you have to wait a full day before reporting someone missing. But the truth is: there is no waiting period. Police are legally required to open a case immediately — and those first hours can mean the difference between life and death. Yet for many families, that urgency simply doesn’t exist in practice. We’ll be speaking to families who say they were let down in those critical early hours — told to wait, dismissed, or not taken seriously when they tried to report their loved ones missing. One of the cases we’ll reflect on is that of Nonkululeko Gabriella Ndaba, known as Gaby, who went missing in Boksburg in May 2023. Her family says there was no urgency from police when they reported her disappearance — no immediate tracing of her cellphone, no proper securing of a potential crime scene, and critical investigative steps were either delayed or ignored. Six days later, she was found dead. This conversation isn’t just about myth versus fact — it’s about accountability, trust in law enforcement, and the devastating consequences when systems fail at the very moment families need them most. Why does this myth persist? And more importantly, what happens when it shapes the response of those meant to protect us?
Gauteng’s Education MEC, Lebogang Maile
Tonight, we turn our attention to a growing crisis that is unfolding inside classrooms across Gauteng — one that is quietly shaping the future of millions of children. Over the past three decades, learner numbers have surged from just over 1.4 million in 1995 to more than 2.8 million today, but the infrastructure meant to support them simply hasn’t kept up. The result? Severely overcrowded classrooms, with some teachers now facing as many as 70 to 85 learners at a time. Education authorities admit the system is under immense strain. Gauteng’s Education MEC, Lebogang Maile, says the province urgently needs at least 200 new schools just to begin easing the pressure. Meanwhile, thousands of learners remain unplaced, and concerns are mounting that the quality of education is being fundamentally compromised. As Maile prepares to visit Bovet Primary School to outline a way forward, the question remains — is the system already stretched beyond repair, and what does this mean for the constitutional right to education in South Africa?
Fewer Births, Same Crisis: Why Child and Teen Pregnancy in the Eastern Cape Remains a Red Flag
There’s a delicate balance between progress and crisis unfolding in the Eastern Cape tonight. On paper, the numbers are improving — fewer children and teenagers are giving birth compared to just a few years ago. But listen closely to health officials, and you’ll hear a very different tone: concern, urgency, and a refusal to celebrate too soon. In the last quarter of the 2025/26 financial year alone, 54 girls between the ages of 10 and 14 gave birth in the province. Fifty-four children, having children. For the Eastern Cape Department of Health, that statistic is not progress — it’s a stark reminder of how far there is still to go. MEC Ntandokazi Capa has made it clear: the goal is not reduction, it’s elimination — zero child pregnancies. Now while the province has seen a notable drop — from over 500 births among 10 to 14-year-olds just a few years ago, down to under 300 — and teenage births also declining by the thousands, these figures still point to a persistent and complex social challenge. Tonight, we unpack the numbers behind the headlines, the human realities behind the statistics, and whether this decline signals real change — or simply a slower-moving crisis.
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