The Talking Sense Podcast

Talking Sense Podcast Gabriel Makin is joined by James Myburgh, Simon Lincoln Reader, Richard Tren, and Frans Cronje for this week's wide-ranging panel discussion covering South African politics and global affairs.This week the panel covers:South Africa's Deindustrialisation — Manufacturing's share of GDP has fallen from a peak of 25% to just 12% since the 1940s. Frans Cronje explains what this collapse means for social mobility, skills development, and the prospects of young South Africans trying to build a path to the middle class.Blair's 5,000-Word Essay — Labour's post-mortem through the lens of the radical centre. The panel examines Blair's diagnosis of a party that prioritised moral posturing over economic management, and what his advice means for centre-left parties navigating a changed global order.The Henry Nowak Stabbing — The 18-year-old was handcuffed by police while dying, after officers believed his attacker's false account. The panel examines ideology-driven policing and the real-world consequences of misapplied anti-racism doctrine.Democrats' 2024 Post-Mortem — A draft internal report that failed to seriously engage with inflation, immigration, or the party's leftward drift. How Democratic leaders focused on the wrong problems — including a push to pack the Supreme Court — while voters moved on.ANC-DA Coalition Polling — New Social Research Foundation data shows that if no party wins a majority in November's local elections, most voters back an ANC-DA coalition government. What this tells us about a maturing, pragmatic South African electorate.Subscribe for weekly episodes delivering clear analysis of South African politics, international affairs, and current events.Full articles, charts, and data: www.thecommonsense.co.zaTony Blair Essay: https://institute.global/insights/politics-and-governance/the-labour-party-is-playing-with-fire-over-its-future-and-the-future-of-the-countryChapters00:00 Exploring Historical Narratives: Slavery and Literature03:07 Contrasting Perspectives: South Africa's Regional Divides05:30 Political Dynamics: Trump's Congressional Challenges08:04 The Left's Conference: A Shift in Political Alliances10:00 DA's Schoolyard Spat: Political Strategy and Consequences15:51 Understanding Afrikaner Identity: Inclusion vs. Exclusivity21:35 The DA's Political Landscape: Historical Context and Future Implications29:27 The DA's Organizational Shift and Its Impact30:36 Manufacturing Data: A Historical Perspective35:22 Tony Blair's Essay: A Call for Labour's Reflection48:01 Democrats' Autopsy: Lessons from the 2024 Election01:00:43 The Henry Nowak Case: A Reflection on Race and Justice01:14:22 Hope for South Africa: A Call for Unity in Governance

The episode opens on Phala Phala and the unanswered questions around the foreign currency found at President Cyril Ramaphosa’s farm. James explains the official version involving a Sudanese businessman and the alleged purchase of buffalo, while Frans notes that several versions of the story point toward cash, couriers, and links to the Middle East. The discussion asks why Ramaphosa has gone to such lengths to avoid a full parliamentary process if there is a simple and legitimate explanation for the money. Frans argues that if the money was lawful, even if there had been poor administration at the farm, the country would likely understand. The deeper problem, he suggests, is the president’s apparent effort to delay and avoid having to testify.From there, the panel places Phala Phala in the broader history of ANC foreign funding. James explains that large foreign cash flows into the liberation movement are not new, and recalls earlier funding relationships involving figures such as Muammar Gaddafi and other states in North Africa and the Middle East. The issue, he argues, is not merely the existence of foreign money, but the political favours, diplomatic positioning, and accountability questions that may follow. The panel asks whether the reaction to Phala Phala is therefore as revealing as the scandal itself.The discussion also covers Free State Agriculture’s Foot and Mouth Disease victory and what it says about state overreach, farming, and the ability of civil society to push back against irrational regulation. The issue is framed as part of a wider struggle over whether farmers, businesses, and communities should be allowed to solve practical problems, or whether they must wait for a failing state to grant permission.The panel then moves to international politics, including Andy Burnham and the direction of British Labour politics. The conversation examines what Burnham’s rise says about working class voters, political repositioning, and the wider crisis of parties that lose touch with their natural constituencies.The episode also looks at American data centres and the energy demands of the artificial intelligence boom. The panel considers how data centres, electricity demand, and industrial policy are becoming central to the next phase of global economic competition. Finally, the panel asks whether the DA should even want to govern Johannesburg. The discussion considers the political risk of taking over a broken metro, the administrative burden of inherited collapse, and the danger that a party can be blamed for problems it did not create. Chapters00:00 – Opening discussion07:20 – Where did the Phala Phala cash come from13:28 – The historical influence of foreign funding of the ANC 25:00 - Steenhuisen in court38:08 – AI data centers in America50:14 – The US midterm election outlook and global political implications54:30 – UK political landscape: Andy Burnham’s potential rise and the future of British politics01:11:01 – The DA in Johannesburg

This week the panel starts with Cricket South Africa’s Newlands ticket debacle, where ordinary fans were largely shut out of the England Test while expensive tour packages dominated access. Marius Roodt explains how only about 10 000 of roughly 70 000 tickets for the first four days were reportedly available to ordinary fans, while many supporters were pushed towards costly package deals.The discussion then moves to the United States, where Richard Tren breaks down the midterm primaries, Donald Trump’s continued grip on the Republican Party, and the risks this creates in key races such as Texas. The panel also discusses the rise of the horseshoe right, the overlap between extreme left and extreme right politics, and the growing problem of anti Semitism in American political life. Simon Lincoln Reader then takes the conversation to London, where the Unite the Kingdom march and the Nakba rally revealed the deepening cultural and political divide in Britain. The panel discusses Keir Starmer’s response, the use of facial recognition technology, the future of Reform and Restore Britain, and whether British politics is moving from a normal party contest into something more cultural and more volatile. Back home, the team examines Cyril Ramaphosa’s latest defence of BEE, especially in the mining sector. James Myburgh explains why the mining charter damaged South Africa’s gold industry, how the nationalisation of mining rights created long term uncertainty, and why Ramaphosa appears unable to admit the economic cost of the policy from which he personally benefited. The episode closes with the MK Party’s brief and chaotic attempt to create a new Brains Trust, before rapidly insisting that Jacob Zuma remains firmly in charge. It is a wonderfully South African ending to a discussion about state failure, political confusion, broken institutions, and the strange comedy of modern public life.Chapters00:00 The Constitutional Court's Landmark Ruling02:50 Cricket South Africa's Ticketing Controversy05:24 Understanding the U.S. Midterm Primaries08:06 The Political Landscape of the U.S.10:57 Marches in London: A Divided Society13:58 The Underlying Issues of Division30:32 Understanding Economic Mismanagement33:13 The Political Landscape in the UK40:16 Cultural Shifts and Political Representation45:19 The Impact of BEE on South Africa's Economy59:37 The Future of the MK Party and Jacob Zuma's Influence

In this episode the panel begin by revisiting the Shelley Garland affair, where the Deputy Editor of The Common Sense, Marius Roodt, under the pseudonym "Shelley Garland", managed to publish an article in the South African edition of the Huffington Post which called for white men to lose the right to vote for 20 years. The point of the article was to expose the woke madness that had infected media houses and it was more than successful in doing so, as the article gained worldwide traction (even making Steve Bannon apoplectic). In response the editor of the Huffington Post at the time wrote in defense of the article, stating that everything that "Shelley" wrote was actually standard feminist theory. This was a step too far as it turned out and within a few months of the Shelley Garland affair, the Huffington Post was gone from South Africa. After Shelley, the panel spend a significant time discussing the revived Phala Phala affair. James explains the context that leads to the Constitutional Court ruling that parliament must initiate impeachment proceedings against Cyril Ramaphosa. Frans unpacks the implications for the ANC and what they should be doing to try and recover the disastrous situation. He insists that this is the moment for the DA to make a full press on reform in exchange for supporting Ramaphosa, otherwise, the country is very likely to see an ANC under Mashatile move quickly to bring the EFF and MK parties into government. James counters that it may not be worth supporting political moves taken by scoundrels such as Arthur Fraser, because you do not know their motivations. Frans then ends by discussing his theory of balkanisation, that as state power recedes, private enclaves become stronger in direct proportion to state failure. After Phala Phala, the panel move on to last week's elections across the United Kingdom. Simon unpacks the results, explaining that Labour lost over 1 400 council seats. Simon then unpacks the implications of the disastrous results for labour and the broader British political context. The conversation then ends with Frans explaining the significance of Trump's visit to China. As has been discussed on the show before Frans explains that the real battle is over the future of the global reserve currency, with China hoping to end the dollar's position as the global reserve currency. Chapters00:00 Introduction 04:23 The Shelley Garland Affair: A Satirical Exposé18:56 The Implications of the Paula Paula Scandal29:09 Political Strategies and Future of the ANC and DA43:09 Navigating Political Choices in South Africa48:50 The Enclave Phenomenon and Its Implications59:25 The Future of South Africa: Enclaves and Economic Resilience01:19:17 Global Dynamics: Trump, China, and the Dollar's Status

In this episode, the panel begin by celebrating the momentous achievement of the parliamentary DA caucus in proposing a well-thought through alternative to South Africaa's existing empowerment legislation. From there the panel explain how there have been a few doctored SRF poll results that have been doing the rounds on social media. Frans points out that if people are taken in by what is very clearly disinformation then that is completely fine, however, for anyone who wants real, well-researched survey data with the methodology included then that can be found directly on The Common Sense website. Following that, Frans and Richard provide a quick update to the war in Iran. Frans explains that a deal is likely to be struck along the lines first suggested in The Common Sense's Iran War scenarios 2 and 4. Richard then points out that while the US public seems to be split on Trump's handling of the war, he believes that the strategic vision demonstrated by the Trump admin should be enough to quash the idea that this war was started without a plan. After that the panel moves on to the potential for waves of violence in South Africa. Frans points out that many of the same indicators that preceded widespread violence in 2008, 2015 and 2021 seem to be coalescing in South Africa once again - cold weather, a rapid lift in food and energy prices which put extreme stress on households on the margins and, lastly, active incitement to xenophobic or other violence. All three of which are now present in South Africa. Following from this discussion James points out that Julius Malema gave an exemplary speech on the topic of xenophobia. In the speech Malema berates those that mistreat foreign nationals, as that does not achieve anything worthwhile. However, James then points out the contradiction at the heart of Malema's African nationalism - his political goals make violence against foreigners more likely, despite the fact that he seems to abhor it. After this section the panel turns its attention internationally with Simon and Gabriel discussing the importance and likely results of the British local elections. Staying on the theme of elections Richard Tren provides an update on the current state of play in the US, trying to answer the question: why does the very solid economic data not translate into more support for Trump and the Republicans? Richard continues after the question on midterms to explain the US Supreme Court's decision on racial gerrymandering. The conversation then turns back to South Africa as James puts forward the case that Max Du Preez is up to something suspect in a recent article he wrote about AfriSol. James points out how in this latest article, Du Preez seems to ignore many of the realities in modern South Africa that he has written about throughout his career. The conversation ends with Frans discussing how the Pope is now more popular amongst atheists and democrats than he is amongst catholics. Chapters00:00 Introduction to Political Dynamics01:56 Elliot's Political Aspirations04:57 Labour Party Leadership Speculations07:47 DA's Empowerment Policy Proposal10:53 Fake Polling and Political Manipulation13:47 Iran War Update and Strategic Implications16:45 Potential Violence in South Africa19:37 Xenophobia and Nationalism in South Africa33:03 The Impact of Political Rhetoric on Immigrant Communities35:19 Understanding Local Elections in the UK38:47 The Dynamics of UK Political Sentiment47:53 Midterm Elections in the United States: An Overview56:14 Economic Sentiment and Political Consequences in America59:56 Racial Dynamics in American Politics01:05:25 Critique of Media Narratives on Afrikaners01:22:52 The Pope's Political Stance and Its Reception

In this episode, the panel tries to understand the record-breaking third assassination attempt against President Trump. They examine how the constant raising of the temperature and slander by the media, celebrities and politicians have created an enabling environment for deranged people to feel as though they are doing something heroic. The panel also unpacks how the same dynamic is not playing out on the current right of politics, because the right are willing to denounce and excise the radicals from their side. After this, the panel turn to some market news as they unpack the case of Elon Musk Vs Sam Altman, the CEO of OpenAI. From there the panel discuss whether an AI bubble exists and what may cause it to burst. After that, the panel turns its attention to the history of OPEC and the decision by the UAE to leave that institution. They demonstrate that this marks a seismic shift in the balance of power of the global energy system, with a turn away from dominance by the gulf states, towards the United States. The conversation ends with a discussion about the DA's continued failings inside of the GNU. From a dodgy education tender, John Steenhuisen being reprimanded by the courts again, to an AI policy written by hallucinating AI, the frequency of DA failure in government seems to have increased. The panel examines why this is the case and what the DA may do to actually leverage the position in which that party finds itself.Chapters00:00 Lunch and Political Optimism02:48 The King's Diplomatic Masterclass05:44 Assassination Attempts on Trump11:40 Political Violence and Radicalization17:34 The SPLC and the Demand for Racism20:54 The Misrepresentation of Trump's Statements23:58 The Role of the SPLC in Political Narratives27:41 The Impact of Policing on Black Lives29:44 Elon Musk vs. Sam Altman: The Legal Battle35:38 Advancements in AI Technology42:43 The Future of AI and Market Dynamics50:23 OPEC's Resurgence and Global Energy Dynamics55:36 The DA's Challenges in Governance

In this episode, the panel explains why all the doom-mongering about the current state of the world is entirely unjustified. They explain data showing how much safer, more prosperous, and free the world has become over the past 500 years. For example, Frans explains that whereas a person had to labour for more than 50 hours 500 years ago to light their home for an hour, today the same amount of light is earned in less than a second of work. From there, James explains how, on Iran, Trump may understand something about revolutionary theory that many Westerners do not. Simon explains how UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer sent a known national security risk to be the UK's ambassador to America. The panel then discuss Geordin Hill-Lewis and the DA and whether it was the right decision for him to prioritise running Cape Town over joining the national government. James says he was right. Frans is less sure. The discussion ends with Frans saying that Roelf Meyer is a good guy who will be well received in Washington, but whether he succeeds in securing a trade deal and investment pact will depend on whether he has Pretoria's, and not America's, support to do that. Chapters00:00 Introduction to Talking Sense Podcast02:17 Debunking the Doom and Gloom Narrative14:12 Revolutionary Strategy and the Iran War23:21 Political Turmoil in the UK: The Mandelson Scandal36:07 Security Vetting and Political Intrigue37:20 Bizarre Happenings in Extremism41:28 The DA Leadership and Political Strategy45:21 The Role of Outsiders in Politics52:07 Roelf Mayer's Diplomatic Challenges01:02:14 China's Economic Opportunities for South Africa

In this episode, the panel explains the new polling data released by the Institute of Race Relations. They unpack how the findings are in line with the theory that South African public opinion is by and large moderate and sensible. From there the panel turns its attention to the new leader of the DA, Geordin Hill-Lewis. They give a very positive reception to his acceptance speech, but then touch on his harsh commentary about the American admistration, questioning the rationale behind the move. The discussion ends on a new report on the British economy which shows how ideas anthithetical to economic growth overtook British politics.

In this episode, the panel explains how traditional western media is presenting a completely misleading reading of how the war in Iran is actually going. Dr Frans Cronje and Richard Tren analyse the latest updates, America's strategic victories, the actual global economic position and what the effect of the war on global markets has actually been. From there Simon Reader turn's to a good news story about the South Africa Nathan Kirsh's $29 billion deal. Dr James Myburgh provides a detailed analysis of proposed changes to the law that are supposedly 'end cadre deployment'. Richard Tren then shares some interesting thoughts he had attended at a global trade event. Frans Cronje rounds out the show by discussing the Artemis mission and the importance of the next global space race.

In this episode, the panel explains the historical dynamics of the explosion of crime in South Africa's townships. It then gives some context on the mega-deal being negotiated between Paramount and Warner Brothers/Discovery and contrasts that with the failing economic model of the BBC. Gabriel Makin explains what happens at a DA Congress, the next which is being held later this month and where the party will elect a new leader. He also highlights an interview he conducted with Nicholas Nyati, who is running for a senior position in the party. Gabriel tells the panel about a number of interesting resolutions Nyathi has brought which will be voted on at the DA congress. The episode closes with two major US stories, an 8–1 ruling from the US Supreme Court with significant free speech implications, and new tax data revealing the economic impact of internal migration across the United States.Chapters00:00 Introduction and Episode Overview01:59 Diverse Panel Introduction and Topics03:15 AI Analysis of South Africa Crime Data06:42 Historical Context of South Africa's Crime Units07:21 Discussion on El Salvador Style Crime Solutions08:47 Importance of Specialized Crime Units09:48 Gang Violence and Crime Prevention Strategies12:26 Judicial System Failures in South Africa13:19 US Supreme Court Ruling on Free Speech15:23 UK Media Bias and BBC Funding Crisis19:27 Economics of the BBC and Public Funding21:37 BBC's Political Bias and Internal Issues24:02 Controversies and Scandals at the BBC29:05 South African Political Developments and DA Congress33:40 US Internal Migration and Tax Data Trends43:55 US Supreme Court Gender Therapy Ruling48:40 European Free Speech Restrictions and Finland Case54:21 US Immigration Trends and State Migration Data01:00:28 US State Politics and Election Outlook01:02:56 Closing Remarks and Future Topics

In this episode, the panel explains how two agricultural unions and a business lobby group are pressuring the minister of agriculture, through the courts, to allow private vaccine procurement and administration to combat the foot-and-mouth disease (FMD) epidemic. It then talks through the political madness of the UK and Western energy policy broadly amidst the Iran war. Dr James Myburgh then provides a fascinating deep-dive analysis of the origins of South Africa's violent crime pandemic and its ties to armed liberation-era movements. The panel then talks about new marriage data published by The Common Sense and why the drop in the marriage to divorce rate bodes ill for the country's long-term stability.

In this episode of Makin Sense, the panel breaks down some of the headline results of the Social Research Foundation/The Common Sense's new national poll and that poll's results in Johannesburg, Tshwane and Ethekwini. The discussion on polling rounds out with the panel focusing on Jacob Zuma and whether he has been misunderstood by the main stream press and analysis. After the discussion on polls, the panel shifts their focus to the death of Paul Ehrlich and the horrible ideas that he had. The panel end the episode by discussing Singapore's history as a means of understanding how to become a successful post-colonial society and head off radicalism.

n this episode of Makin Sense, the panel examines the reports that Patrice Motsepe is not running for ANC leader. They then unpack the diplomatic fight between South Africa and the new United States ambassador. The focus then shifts to an Asian fraud scandal with a South African twist.The panel then studies the facts around venture capital in Africa. After which, they explore the misreporting on the recent terrorist attack in New York and they finish by discussing the surge of support for the Green Party in the United Kingdom. Correction: Total raised for Optasia's IPO was R6.5 billion (approximately $375 million) and was valued at R23.5 billion ($1.4 billion).

In this episode of Makin Sense, the panel examines the misrepresented history between the ANC and Iran. The panel explores how the myth of ties between the ANC and Iran overlooks Iran’s repression of leftist movements and the deaths of many communists under the Iranian regime. The panel outlines the fluid situation in Iran today, focusing on US objectives, the shifting global power dynamics with China, and the energy market impacts. The panel also discuss how South Africa’s foreign policy might shift with Iran’s declining influence. Dr Frans Cronje lays out how the war will end.

In this episode, the panel discusses the US Head of the Financial Times attack on the Common Sense, the new CBS documentary on farm murders, the South African budget, the supreme court's decision on Trumps tariffs, Geordin Hill-Lewis running for DA leadership, the UK's new cabinet secretary and South Africa's education crisis.Chapters00:00 Introduction to the Panel and Topics02:15 Simon Versus the Financial Times02:36 The Decline of London and Multicultural Societies06:41 Multiculturalism vs Multi-ethnic Societies12:25 Analysis of the CBS Farm Attacks Documentary14:39 Land Ownership Statistics and Land Reform Myths16:54 South Africa's Violence and Farm Murders34:11 South Africa's Budget: Pragmatism and Redistribution41:46 South Africa's Welfare System and Redistribution Scale43:42 US Tariffs: Court Ruling and Economic Impact48:47 US Tariffs and South Africa's Foreign Policy51:23 DA Leadership Nominations and Political Future58:46 UK Cabinet Secretary and Civil Service Power Shift01:03:28 South Africa's Education Crisis and Charter Schools01:07:53 Solutions for South Africa's Education System

In this episode, the panel discusses whether Patrice Mostepe could be eyeing a run for the ANC leadership, Marco Rubio's speech in Munich, the EU and UK's latest economic data, and the situation going into the US midterms. Chapters00:00 Introduction to the Panel and Topics01:52 Patrice Motsepe's Resignation and Political Aspirations04:16 Motsepe's Background and Credibility05:59 Challenges of ANC Leadership and Patronage Networks10:43 Public Support and Potential for Motsepe11:49 Motsepe's Appeal to Disenchanted Voters14:24 The ANC's Political Landscape and Rival Parties17:51 Governance Challenges for Motsepe19:52 Economic Policies and BEE Considerations26:35 Energy Policy and Foreign Relations30:42 Transition to Marco Rubio's Speech at Munich Security Conference37:46 Reciprocity in Trade Agreements41:03 The Economic Landscape of Europe41:29 UK's Economic Performance and EU Relations47:35 Public Sentiment and Political Shifts52:48 The Impact of Midterm Elections01:06:07 Trump's Policies and Public Perception

We unpack the Roedean controversy, the mounting pressure against UK PM Keir Starmer, shifts inside the DA, and unease among Christian ANC members over South Africa’s stance on Iran. We also explore US energy policy, Johannesburg’s ongoing power and water crisis, and what South Africa’s deepening trade ties with China could mean for the country’s economic future.

In this episode, the panel discusses why Namibia is becoming one of the world’s most important countries, what happened to John Steenhuisen, what his departure means for the DA and the GNU and who may succeed him, the outlook for gold and silver prices, why South Africa really expelled Israel’s most senior diplomat, and what the new Federal Reserve governor pick means for the global economy.

In this episode of Makin Sense the panel is joined by the Founder and CEO of InsureAI, Ron Richman, who answers all the questions they have about AI. Chapters00:00 Introduction To The Panel01:50 Understanding AI: Definitions and Evolution09:46 Large Language Models: Capabilities and Applications19:27 The Impact of AI on Jobs and Industries29:29 AI in Financial Advice and Market Analysis39:04 The Future of AI: Self-Awareness and Continuous Learning47:10 The Future of Work and AI53:06 The AI Bubble: Reality or Hype?01:00:01 Education in the Age of AI01:00:57 China's AI Advancements01:02:42 Regulation and the Future of AI

In this episode of Makin Sense, the panel discusses significant global and South African news, focusing on Trump's intention of taking Greenland, a government report on foot and mouth disease, Iran's influence on South Africa and America's response to that, the history of the NPA and the World Bank's new global growth report.Chapters00:00 Introduction to the Podcast and Panel01:52 Foot and Mouth Disease Report Resurfaces14:39 The Geopolitical Importance of Greenland29:29 Iran's Influence and Its Impact on South Africa44:01 The Shift in American Foreign Policy47:54 Helen Zille's Political Journey53:50 The DA's Internal Politics and Strategy58:44 Polling Insights on Helen Zille01:03:23 The National Prosecuting Authority's History01:13:30 Global Economic Outlook and South Africa01:20:21 The Impact of AI on Software Companies

In this episode of Makin Sense, the panel discusses significant global and South African news, focusing on the Iranian naval exercises in Simon's Town. Benji Shulman provides insights into the implications of South Africa's military collaboration with Iran, particularly in light of the ongoing protests in Iran and the diplomatic tensions it creates. Frans discusses the foot and mouth disease that is ravaging South African cows and the potential disaster that it could represent. He also discusses the ANC polling below 50% in many key constituencies and the ANC's 8 January statement.Simon discusses the growth opportunities in Africa giving a few case studies of successful projects in Africa.James talks about the German chancellor walking back on green commitments and ICE in Minnesota. Chapters00:00 Introduction to the Episode02:28 Iranian Naval Exercises in Simon's Town11:45 Historical Context of Iran-South Africa Relations30:56 Foot and Mouth Disease Crisis in South Africa50:20 The Cattle Connection: A Formidable Team51:15 Growth Opportunities in Africa58:24 The ANC's Decline: Polling Insights01:25:33 The ANC's January 8th Statement: A Missed Opportunity01:41:00 Closing Thoughts: The Path Forward for South Africa

In this episode of Makin Sense, the panel discusses significant global and South African news, focusing on the U.S. intervention in Venezuela, the implications for South Africa's political landscape, the threats to the GNU in 2026, and the ongoing issues of free speech and censorship in the U.S. The conversation also touches on the new NPA boss in South Africa and the political turmoil in Iran, highlighting the potential consequences for regional stability and international relations.Chapters00:00 Introduction to the Panel and Topics02:20 The Venezuelan Crisis and Maduro's Arrest07:07 International Reactions and Implications09:14 The Fallout in Venezuela Post-Arrest11:15 The Role of Delcy Rodriguez17:01 Strategic Objectives of the U.S. in Venezuela22:55 Lessons for South Africa from Venezuela31:55 Threats to the GNU in 202637:07 Political Landscape and Leadership Dynamics43:20 Public Perception of the GNU48:30 Censorship and Free Speech in the US01:03:07 Racial Dynamics in American Society01:14:05 The Impact of Emigration on South Africa01:16:18 Comparative Analysis of Discrimination in the West01:19:12 The UK Experience and Its Implications01:23:00 The Rise of Disenfranchised Youth01:27:20 Generational Shifts and Political Reactions01:33:45 The New NPA Leadership and Its Challenges01:40:00 Iran's Socio-Economic Turmoil and Global Implications

In this episode of Makin Sense, the panel looks back on 2025 and the events and stories that shaped politics, markets, and public mood. The conversation opens in South Africa with a debate over the African National Congress and its evolving approach to the Government of National Unity. Frans argues that the ANC increasingly appears to accept the GNU as South Africa’s governing reality, suggesting a possible move away from some of its more populist instincts. James pushes back, pointing out that the year began with the ANC signing major policies into law, including expropriation without compensation, BELA, employment equity, and the continued pursuit of the NHI, and he warns that South Africans will need to remain vigilant over how these measures are implemented. From there, the panel ranges across the broader political landscape, including governance developments, how global events affected South Africa, the country’s posture in the G20, local government shifts, and what investors should make of the direction of travel. The discussion then turns to the United States, where the panel weighs Trump’s first year of his second term, with Richard crediting reforms on the Southern border, education, energy, and foreign policy, while criticising tariffs that have unsettled business, a retributive turn in lawfare, and the failure of DOGE to tackle the scale of government spending on benefits. The episode closes in the United Kingdom, where Simon argues that the Starmer government’s handover of the Chagos Islands to Mauritius was a major blunder, and adds that the UK’s economic performance was notably weak in 2025 with little sign of near-term improvement. Chapters00:00 Introduction to the Panel and Overview of 202502:08 Political Dynamics in South Africa's GNU09:29 Key Developments in South Africa's Governance14:05 The Impact of Global Events on South Africa16:22 South Africa's Position in the G2020:14 Local Government Dynamics and Political Shifts22:17 Investment Perspectives on South Africa26:02 Reflections on South Africa's Future35:37 Transition to the United States36:18 Trump's First Year: Policies and Controversies48:25 The Ugly Side of Politics in the US58:53 The Rise of Extremism in American Politics01:08:05 The UK's Political Landscape in 202501:24:41 Concluding Thoughts and Future Outlook

In this episode, the panel is joined by Mike Sham, host of the State of the Nation podcast. The panel discusses potentially significant political stories shaping South Africa and the world going into 2026. The conversation starts in South Africa by focusing on the challenges faced by the ANC, and whether it will seek to double down on ideology, as well as the DA's position in the next local government elections and whether a leadership change is appropriate for that party. The conversation also touches on the dynamics within the GNU and whether it will continue to hold strong through 2026. After South Africa, the conversation heads to America where the panel considers what the mid-terms in November could mean for the Trump legacy. The conversation also focuses heavily on the implications of US politics for international relations. The conversation delves into the ongoing Russia-Ukraine conflict and the potential for peace in Europe, highlighting the complexities of global politics and the shifting dynamics being played out on the global stage. The discussion ends in Europe as the panel members discuss whether changing sensibilities towards climate will have an impact on European policymakers, or whether they will continue to blindly pursue net zero at all costs. The panellists also ask whether the countries of Europe will continue to swing to the populist right. .Chapters00:00 Introduction to the Panel and Themes Ahead02:23 The ANC's Struggles and Future Prospects14:56 Local Government Elections: A Turning Point for the ANC29:39 The DA's Challenges and Leadership Dynamics50:15 Navigating Political Leadership and Strategy52:53 The Importance of Collaboration in South African Politics57:11 The Role of Political Leadership in National Stability58:50 Shifting Focus: International Relations and the U.S. Impact01:09:39 Analyzing the U.S. Political Landscape and Upcoming Elections01:18:07 Prospects for Peace in Europe and the Ukraine Conflict01:28:00 The Future of European Politics and Elections

The panel got an in-depth report from James Myburgh on the political history of the Thabo Mbeki and Zuma power struggle at the 2005 National General Council and how Ramaphosa's National General Council was very different to that. He then discusses the fine balance that seems to have been struck within the GNU and its prospects of continuing. Gabriel adds to this discussion by discussing the widespread support amongst voters for the ANC and DA to work together in a coalition. Frans Cronje reports on the ANC not paying its staff and the feeling within the party. He then goes on to offer a word of caution to the DA about the rush to dethrone John Steenhuisen and how that might be an imprudent decision. He ends the show by discussing both the newest developments in the Chinese economy and their push to create a new global reserve currency as well as the new US national security strategy. Simon Lincoln Reader reports from London all about Private Equity in the UK. He explains the recent data indicating that the industry has seen a substantial decline in the UK. He then describes the recent history of British Private equity, he explains the success story of the early days of private equity through the case study of Pret a Manger and then gives the panel an example of how it went wrong. Chapters00:00 Introduction to the Panel and Topics02:21 The ANC's National General Council: What Didn't Happen09:44 The ANC's Current Challenges and Leadership Dynamics14:48 The DA's Leadership Struggles and Political Landscape22:28 Public Perception of the GNU and Party Performance43:44 The DA's Strategic Positioning in South Africa48:04 Transitioning to International Perspectives48:24 Understanding Private Equity in the UK01:02:32 The Future of the UK Economy01:13:18 China's Economic Developments and Global Influence01:23:52 Shifts in US National Security Strategy

The panel got an in-depth report from James Myburgh on the political history behind farm attacks in South Africa, the extent of the problem, and the political forces behind the killings. Frans Cronje reports on a new bill soon to come before Parliament that will look to empower the state to arrest Israel supporters in the country, on comments by the US Secretary of State that pitch Poland against South Africa to explain why the one's economy is a rising and the other's not, on why South African chrome smelters are shutting down, and on why Cyril Ramaphosa is set to remain ANC leader whilst John Steenhuisen may be out of job. Richard Tren reports on America's conflict with Venezuela, whether that government will stand, and why Trump has freed a convicted Honduran drug baron even as he blasts Venezuelan drug boats out of the water. Simon Lincoln-Reader reports from London on just how much trouble the UK is in and why investors are packing up for greener pastures.Chapters00:00 Introduction to the Panel and Topics02:43 Historical Context of Farm Attacks05:35 The Evolution of Farm Murders in South Africa08:22 Modern Perspectives on Farm Attacks11:08 Technological Advances and Their Impact on Farm Security14:17 Political Implications of Farm Murders17:03 The Apartheid Bill and Its Consequences19:51 US-South Africa Relations and the G2022:47 Trump's Stance on Venezuela25:28 Conclusion and Future Implications51:29 The Uncertain Future of Venezuela55:15 Escalation and Consequences for Maduro58:26 Political Dynamics in Honduras01:02:28 The Budget Speech Fallout01:15:23 The Role of the Office for Budget Responsibility01:28:16 Economic Consequences of Power Supply Issues in South Africa

In this episode of Makin Sense, the panel examines the proposed Russia Ukraine peace plan, unpacks the ANC’s balance of forces doctrine, analyses the United Kingdom’s new budget, and assesses South Africa’s economic outlook heading into 2026. Richard offers Thanksgiving reflections from the United States and Bheki outlines the key indicators shaping South Africa’s growth prospects.

The panel got an in-depth report from James Myburgh on the political history behind farm attacks in South Africa, the extent of the problem, and the political forces behind the killings. Frans Cronje reports on a new bill soon to come before Parliament that will look to empower the state to arrest Israel supporters in the country, on comments by the US Secretary of State that pitch Poland against South Africa to explain why the one's economy is a rising and the other's not, on why South African chrome smelters are shutting down, and on why Cyril Ramaphosa is set to remain ANC leader whilst John Steenhuisen may be out of job. Richard Tren reports on America's conflict with Venezuela, whether that government will stand, and why Trump has freed a convicted Honduran drug baron even as he blasts Venezuelan drug boats out of the water. Simon Lincoln-Reader reports from London on just how much trouble the UK is in and why investors are packing up for greener pastures.Simon is a financier and co-founder of the dealmaking platform Lofotr Investors. He is international and markets correspondent for The Common Sense and a trustee of the Kay Mason Foundation. Richard Tren is a director of the Washington, DC-based Yorktown Foundation for Freedom. He served as a program officer of the Searle Freedom Trust for 13 years. In 2000 he co-founded Africa Fighting Malaria, a public health policy organization that successfully changed WHO, USAID, and Global Fund policies for the prevention and treatment of malaria. James Myburgh is the Director of the Bremen Centre for Democratic Research (BRE-DE-RE) and editor of politicsweb.co.za . He served as a policy researcher for the Democratic Party in the late 90s. He has a DPhil in Politics from St. Anthony's College Oxford.Frans Cronje is the Editor of the Common Sense and founder of Frans Cronje private clients. He was the CEO of the South African liberal think-tank the Institute of Race Relations for 8 years. Gabriel Makin is the CEO of the SRF and Executive producer of The Common Sense. He had previously worked as a barista.

In this episode of Makin Sense, the panel discusses the assassination of political activist Charlie Kirk and its implications for free speech and political violence in the US. They explore the current state of American politics, the impact of economic data on market reactions, and the controversies surrounding Peter Mandelson. The conversation also delves into South Africa's trade relations with the US, highlighting the challenges and opportunities for economic growth in the region.

In this episode, the panel discusses various political topics, including the resignation of UK Deputy Prime Minister Angela Rayner, the implications for the Labour Party, and the broader political landscape in the UK. They also delve into the history of political party funding in South Africa, the rise of the woke right, and the ongoing crisis of free speech in the UK. Additionally, they explore the energy revolution in the US, focusing on the endangerment finding and its implications for climate policy and economic growth.

In this episode of Makin Sense, the panel discusses crime and policing in Washington DC, the implications of the end of history theory on Western liberalism, the looming economic crisis in the UK, and the fiscal management of South Africa under the ANC. The conversation highlights the importance of making hard choices in governance and the impact of economic policies on political stability.

In this episode, the panel discusses various economic and political themes, focusing on the Federal Reserve's role in the American economy, inflation, and the impact of monetary policy. They explore a shift in conservatism in the UK and the future of the ANC in South Africa, as well as the implications of water and power crises on the future stability of Iran. The conversation highlights the complexities of economic governance and the influence of political ideologies on economic outcomes.