Democracy Unplugged

What do the numbers tell us about Johannesburg’s local elections? Political and economic analyst Paul Berkowitz joins Phumi Mashigo to unpack the data behind the upcoming local elections. Together they explore what the numbers could mean for Johannesburg, and beyond, and whether they tell the full story of what voters can expect. With so many parties competing for power, what should voters be looking at beyond the party name on the ballot? Hear more about that in this conversation. Disclaimer: The views and opinions expressed by hosts, guests and panellists do not necessarily reflect those of Podcast Party. Podcast Party encourages open dialogue and diverse perspectives and does not endorse any political party, candidate or viewpoint. The Burning Platform

Johannesburg needs a mayor. But what does each candidate believe is broken, what do they want the city to become, and who pays for their plans? In this episode, Phumi Mashigo puts different candidates’ answers side by side, exploring their visions for Johannesburg, the cost of fixing the city, the realities of coalition politics and who stands to benefit from the economic future they imagine. Because before you decide who gets your vote, you need to understand what they’re asking you to trust them with. The Burning Platform

With local government elections less than 50 days away, the political temperature is rising. Phumi Mashigo sits down with Justice Malala and Mondli Makhanya to unpack the ANC’s candidate-list chaos, the DA’s missed opportunities, MK’s rise in KwaZulu-Natal and whether the EFF has lost its political edge. Plus: Ramaphosa’s leadership in Africa, Trump and the US midterms, Europe’s shift to the right — and what all of it tells us about the changing face of political leadership. The Burning Platform

Can South Africa get tobacco policy right? What do these decisions mean for you? Phumi Mashigo speaks to Prof Lekan Ayo-Yusuf, Professor of Public Health with more than 20 years of experience across higher education, hospital management, university leadership and executive management. With specialist expertise in epidemiology, health promotion, research and tobacco control regulatory science, Prof Ayo-Yusuf explains the future of the tobacco industry, the role of the World Health Organisation, and the importance of bringing science, advocacy and political leadership together. The conversation also takes a closer look at South Africa’s Tobacco Bill and the policies that could shape the country’s public health future. The Burning Platform

What lessons can be drawn from decades spent in activism, labour movements, government, and politics? Patrick Motubase joins Phumi Mashigo for a wide-ranging discussion about his path through South Africa's democratic journey, the work of the MK Party, and the opportunities and obstacles that lie ahead for the country's next generation. The Burning Platform

What happens when a student activist enters the political establishment? Naledi Chirwa-Mpungose joins Phumi Mashigo for a wide-ranging discussion on power, protest, Parliament and the issues that matter most to young South Africans. From jobs and education to the GNU, youth participation and protecting women and children, this episode examines whether South Africa is creating opportunities for its youth, or failing them. The Burning Platform

How do the descendants of South Africa’s most famous freedom fighters understand freedom in today's world? Phumi Mashigo speaks with Princesses Swati Mandela-Dlamini and Zaziwe Manaway, two of Nelson and Winnie Madikizela-Mandela’s granddaughters about the deeply personal stories behind their new Netflix documentary. Serving as co-producers of the Netflix documentary series “The Trials of Winnie Mandela”, Phumi speaks to the pair about growing up within a family that played a central role in South Africa’s liberation struggle, the lasting impact of apartheid on their lives, and the responsibility that comes with preserving an important chapter of the country's history. Through their candid reflections, they offer a unique perspective on legacy, identity and the continuing relevance of the struggle for freedom. The Burning Platform

What happens when one of the world’s most progressive constitutions collides with corruption, inequality and political dysfunction? In this week’s episode, Phumi Mashigo explores whether South Africa’s democracy is being protected, or slowly weakened, and why the Constitution still matters now more than ever. She is joined by human rights lawyer, policy advocate, and civil society leader, Nicole Fritz. The Burning Platform