Clashes, Criminal Probes, and Political Threats Dominate Sunday Newspaper Front Pages

South Africa’s Sunday newspapers were dominated by political tension, corruption allegations, and high-stakes governance disputes, according to an analysis of weekend coverage discussed by Business Day journalist Thando Maeko on SABC News.

1. Mbeki–Ramaphosa Clash Over National Dialogue

The Sunday Times reported a major fallout between the government and legacy foundations — including the Thabo Mbeki Foundation, Desmond & Leah Tutu Foundation, and FW de Klerk Foundation — over preparations for the upcoming National Dialogue.

Originally scheduled for 15 August 2025, the first phase, the National Convention, will proceed despite calls from the foundations to postpone until October. Key disputes include:

• Budget disagreements – Proposed funding was cut from R850 million to R452 million.
• Control vs. citizen participation – Foundations want a citizen-led process, while government maintains leadership.
• Personality tensions – Seen as a clash between former President Thabo Mbeki and President Cyril Ramaphosa.

2. Police Commissioner Faces Possible Arrest

The Sunday Tribune alleged that National Police Commissioner Fannie Masemola could face imminent arrest over irregular building procurement in Gauteng, Free State, and another province in 2024.

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• Evidence cited – WhatsApp messages and whistleblower accounts.
• Official denial – The Presidency has rejected claims of interference in any arrest.
• Historical precedent – If confirmed, Masemola would be the second sitting police commissioner arrested in office.

3. ANC–DA Rift Over GNU Stability

The Sunday World highlighted growing friction in the Government of National Unity (GNU) after the DA threatened a motion of no confidence in President Ramaphosa.

• ANC reaction – Secretary-General Fikile Mbalula called it a “declaration of war” that could collapse the GNU.
• Underlying tensions – Disputes over land reform, budget priorities, foreign policy, and legislative reforms.
• Political stakes – Both ANC and DA research indicates voters prefer a GNU over single-party dominance, but cracks could widen before the 2026 local government elections.

Conclusion:
From heated political stand-offs to looming corruption probes, South Africa’s leadership is facing a week of turbulence ahead of critical governance milestones. The National Dialogue controversy, possible SAPS leadership shake-up, and ongoing GNU instability set the stage for heightened political drama in the months to come.