The Burning Platform

After 100 days of GNU, are we headed in the right direction?

South African politics has been a hive of activity in recent times, from questionable hiring practices to political floor crossing. Joining Gareth and Phumi to give an insider's view, Chairperson of the Federal Council of the Democratic Alliance, Helen Zille. Getting insight into news headlines is the order of the day. The Burning Platform

Classically-liberal South African YouTuber Sihle Ngobese AKA Big Daddy Liberty takes a hot seat on The Burning Platform to give his take on some of the week's political stories and interrogate whether the Government of National Unity (GNU) is the solution to the issues South Africa currently faces. The Burning Platform

What does America look like after the elections?

With Gareth in Bulgaria, Phumi is joined by Jack Motlanthe as co-host as we turn our attention to the elections in the US. To add some perspective, Associate Editor at the Daily Maverick, J Brooks Spector and Durban based District Prosecutor, Treasure Ntimane. The Burning Platform

What does the future hold for party members who change allegiances?

After recently leaving the party she founded, Colleen Makhubele joins Gareth and Phumi, as well as regular contributor Kanthan Pillay in studio. The shockwaves of her departure from SARA to join the MK can still be felt as South Africans grapple with the ever changing political landscape. The team question Colleen to understand the thinking behind the move and what the future holds. The Burning Platform

What exactly is a political commentator and what qualifies a person to be one?

Gareth and Phumi are joined by a man who wears many hats, who considers himself an 'accidental political commentator' even though he is a lot more than that. Solly Moeng is a renowned outspoken political commentator, columnist, communications and brand strategist. He brings his thoughts and opinions on the political happenings in South Africa. The Burning Platform

What does it mean to be a minister in the GNU?

With the olympics behind us and life settling back to normal, Gareth and Phumi are joined by firebrand minister of sports, arts and culture, Mr Gayton Mckenzie. On the table for discussion is how Mr McKenzie has found his feet after 97 days since the general elections, his ministry and much more, as we get an insider's view on the Government of National Unity. The Burning Platform

Has journalism gone off the rails?

Phumi and Gareth mull over the recent political happenings in South Africa after a busy news week. They are then joined by journalist and founder of Biznews.com, Alec Hogg, as he lends his voice and know how to the sometimes chaotic South African political and financial landscape. The Burning Platform

What options do you have in conflict?

Phumi is back after a two week hiatus and she joins Gareth as they jump into the contentious issues shaping our communities. From the threat of conflict in our cities, beyond the 2021 KZN unrest, to the growing challenges of migration and xenophobia. Conflict resolution specialist and author, Andre Vlok, lends his voice and expertise to the show. The Burning Platform

What should South Africans prioritise for genuine progress?

Gareth Cliff is back in studio and is joined by Penuel Mlotshwa (The Black Pen) to explore the landscape of South Africa's politics. The conversation tackles multiple topics, from the ambitious R3.8 billion project by Solidarity to the crucial steps needed to enhance our Olympic performance. Also up for discussion is what South Africans should prioritise and how we can address the ongoing border crisis. The Burning Platform

How do we deepen our understanding of world politics? With all the news developments taking place in South African politics, Gareth is in studio and joined by opinionated contributors Kanthan Pillay and Jonathon Witt. Deconstructing the often complex world of politics, is what's on the menu. The Burning Platform