Sunday Times Politics Weekly is a flagship political podcast from the Sunday Times.
Each week, our we speak exclusively with politicians, academics, policy experts and analysts to unpack the issues shaping South Africa — from power and governance to accountability, the economy and social justice.
Through rigorous, informed conversations, the podcast offers context, scrutiny and insight into the decisions that affect the country and its people.
An Arena Holdings production.
Eskom’s Mteto Nyati on electricity prices, coal and the future of the power utility
When will electricity prices come down? What will it take to make Eskom more financially sustainable? And what role should coal play in South Africa’s energy future?
In this episode of Sunday Times Politics Weekly, host Mike Siluma speaks to Eskom board chairperson Mteto Nyati about the costs still weighing on the power utility, efforts to cut spending and the prospect of bringing electricity price increases down over time.
Nyati discusses the change in leadership following André de Ruyter’s departure as CEO, argues that South Africa should not abandon black economic empowerment, and reflects on race and recognition in corporate leadership. He also explains why he believes coal cannot simply be discarded, and why government and business need to work together to unlock investment, create jobs and support economic growth.
The conversation explores the difficult choices facing Eskom — and what they mean for South Africa’s electricity supply and economy.
Producer: Bulelani Nonyukela.
27 Sept 2026
Kallie Kriel: AfriForum, farm murders, US visas & the fight for community power
AfriForum CEO Kallie Kriel joins Sunday Times deputy editor Mike Siluma for a wide-ranging conversation.
They discuss AfriForum’s dual role as watchdog and community-builder, how the organisation defines “community”, its critique of race-based BEE, opposition to expropriation without compensation, and what “self-determination” actually means.
Kriel defends AfriForum’s engagement with the US president Donald Trump administration, explains the timeline around the US visa restrictions, and makes the case for treating farm murders as a priority crime. He also talks about the recent meeting with March and March, the “Kill the Boer” judgment, and relations with President Cyril Ramaphosa.
An exchange on identity, history, and whether AfriForum is part of the solution or part of the problem in South Africa.
20 Sept 2026
Bongani Baloyi on MK, Johannesburg and his political journey
MK Party Johannesburg mayoral candidate Bongani Baloyi joins Sunday Times Politics Weekly for a wide-ranging conversation with Sunday Times deputy editor Mike Siluma.
Baloyi discusses his vision for Johannesburg, including the city’s finances, service delivery, infrastructure, housing, economic development, security and the future of the CBD. He also outlines his proposals for restructuring the city’s municipal entities, improving revenue collection and maintenance, and expanding economic opportunities in townships.
The conversation also explores Baloyi’s political journey — from joining the DA as a teenager, to ActionSA, forming Xiluva and ultimately joining the MK Party. He explains why he says his move to MK was driven by political conviction, his relationship with party leader Jacob Zuma, and his ambitions for Johannesburg.
Producer: Bulelani Nonyukela.
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