Witness D’s Murder - Whistleblower Protection Under Fire

Loading player...
It’s a story that shook the country. A key witness from the Madlanga Commission of Inquiry, known only as Witness D, was gunned down outside his Brakpan home, ambushed with an AK-47 after stepping out to open his gate. He had no state protection. His killing has pierced his anonymity and reignited urgent questions about how South Africa treats whistleblowers. Even President Ramaphosa says government must “redouble” efforts to keep them safe. Phemelo speaks to Public Interest SA chairperson, Tebogo Khaas, about what this brazen murder tells us about the risk of speaking truth to power in South Africa.
8 Dec 2025 4PM English South Africa Education · Careers

Other recent episodes

Joburg's fuel crisis raises concerns over service delivery

Johannesburg's financial troubles are under the spotlight after Roads and Transport MMC Kenny Kunene revealed that fuel services to the Johannesburg Roads Agency fleet have been suspended. The move has left vehicles responsible for pothole repairs, traffic signal maintenance and emergency infrastructure inspections grounded, sparking concerns about the City's ability…
24 Jun 5PM 22 min

Parliament seeks answers over clash between IDAC and Crime Intelligence

Parliament is demanding clarity following a dramatic standoff involving the Investigating Directorate Against Corruption (IDAC) and senior Crime Intelligence officials. The incident has raised fresh concerns about tensions within South Africa's security cluster, with questions mounting over accountability and law enforcement oversight. Phemelo speaks to Portfolio Committee on Police Chairperson…
24 Jun 4PM 13 min

Thousands of Malawians stranded as repatriation efforts stall

Thousands of Malawian nationals remain stranded across KwaZulu-Natal as authorities battle logistical challenges in a large-scale repatriation process. Officials say limited transport capacity from the Malawian government has slowed efforts, forcing authorities to balance voluntary returns with deportation procedures. Phemelo speaks to KZN Premier spokesperson Lindelani Mbatha about the delays…
24 Jun 4PM 10 min

Campaign launched to reopen Joburg libraries on Saturdays

Civil society groups are calling on the City of Johannesburg to reopen public libraries on Saturdays, arguing that learners, job seekers and communities are being deprived of vital resources and safe public spaces. A petition has now been launched to pressure the City to restore weekend access. Phemelo speaks to…
24 Jun 4PM 6 min