“Those concerned about our country’s current trajectory would likely view with suspicion any attempt to question Nhlanhla Mkhwanazi’s testimony at the Madlanga Commission of Inquiry. There are many people with much to lose from this process, and so it’s understandable that ordinary South Africans would worry about the media being influenced by those with vested interests. With so much at stake, it amplifies our sense of responsibility to our viewers while, at the same time, making Sunday’s insert even more necessary.” – John Webb, Executive Producer
Death of a Diplomat
What really happened to Ambassador Nathi Mthethwa? The former police minister was found dead outside the Hyatt Regency in Paris last week: he had apparently fallen to his death from a room on the 22nd floor. In the wake of allegations by KwaZulu-Natal Police Commissioner Lt Gen Nhlanhla Mkhwanazi at the Madlanga Commission, his sudden death caused a ripple of shock and wild speculation. Carte Blanche retraces Mthethwa’s final days in Paris and asks: was this suicide? Tragic accident? Or is something more sinister at play?
Producer & Presenter: Nickolaus Bauer
Hiding in Plain Sight
He shook the country to its foundations. In July, KwaZulu-Natal Police Commissioner Lt Gen Nhlanhla Mkhwanazi held an explosive press conference, accusing the police minister, top cops and others of corruption, defeating the ends of justice, and links with organised crime. Overnight, he became the hero of a public worn down by crime and corruption. In response, President Cyril Ramaphosa called for a commission of inquiry and suspended police leadership. But is everything as it seems in this high-stakes game? Carte Blanche peers into the dark heart of the police.
Producer: Joy Summers | Presenter: Govan Whittles
Patricia, Queen of the Track
It’s a story about one man’s dream, a locomotive given a second lease on life, and a piece of history lovingly restored. At the grand old age of 128, Patricia is the oldest working Cape gauge steam locomotive on the African continent. Her survival is thanks to a rail heritage enthusiast who has invested a small fortune, and a dedicated team working tirelessly for years to bring her back to life. Today, with every part repaired or replaced, Patricia is ready for her relaunch.
Producer: Floris Kotze | Presenter: Govan Whittles
NOW STREAMING
Marketplace Murder
Some call it re-commerce: the booming online trade in second-hand goods – from furniture to clothes, and gadgets. Online shopping has grown massively since the COVID pandemic. One study estimates that more than 70% of South Africans shop online. Thanks to social media, anyone can be a trader: it’s free, it’s convenient and, of course, it’s a perfect target for criminals. Unsuspecting people posting their goods for sale on platforms like Facebook Marketplace are increasingly falling victim to armed robbery, kidnapping and even murder. We travelled to Cape Town to visit a family grieving the loss of their son to an online sale. Watch the full story on DStv Stream.
UPDATE: Knysna’s Collapse
Known as the Jewel of the Garden Route, Knysna has been in a steady state of decline for years – the outcome of mismanagement and political manoeuvring at the top while residents, tourists, and a unique ecosystem suffer. Municipalities across our country are suffering the same fate, as mismanagement becomes more the norm than the exception. Knysna has now become a test case as municipal, provincial and even national government haggle over its future. Here’s an update on the latest developments.
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