First Take SA

Friday, 18 September 2026

Gender-based violence, kidnappings and alleged criminality in law enforcement dominated the programme, alongside scrutiny of ANC infighting and key sports results.

1. 05:41

   The Madlanga Commission has heard evidence of serious criminality within law enforcement; 110 witnesses have testified over 174 days, while correctional facilities hold nearly 170,000 inmates against capacity for about 107,000.

2. 05:54

   Gauteng recorded more than 2,300 kidnappings between April and June, while government said specialised teams are pursuing suspects linked to nine women killed around Ekurhuleni.

3. 05:57

   Not In My Name launched a men’s pledge against abusing women and children, aiming to collect at least 1,500 signatures by Sunday while addressing toxic masculinity.

4. 05:50

   An ANC political analyst described the party as being at war with itself, citing multiple court battles and declining confidence in internal disciplinary and candidate-selection processes.

5. 05:27

   Miane Smith’s unbeaten 102 from 59 balls powered South Africa’s women to an 80-run victory over Zimbabwe in Bulawayo.

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