Power behind closed doors - TJ Masilela on South African politics

Loading player...
What really happens behind the scenes in South African
politics? And how much of what we see is politics as usual, and how much
is political performance? Phumi Mashigo sits down with TJ Masilela, host
of Palatable Politics, to unpack the inner workings of political
parties, democracy and the responsibility that comes with political
membership. TJ also tackles a difficult question: if the ANC is far from
ideal, why does he believe there is no other alternative? This is a
conversation that invites you to look beyond the performance and think
more deeply about the politics that shapes our lives.

Disclaimer: The views and opinions expressed by hosts, guests and panellists do not necessarily reflect those of Podcast Party. Podcast Party encourages open dialogue and diverse perspectives and does not endorse any political party, candidate or viewpoint.
29 Oct English South Africa Politics · News

Other recent episodes

Power, Promises & the People - Local Government Elections 2026

As South Africa heads towards the 2026 local government elections, Siya Sangweni brings political parties in Cape Town together for one last, important conversation before voters head to the polls. What are they promising voters, and what will those promises mean for your everyday life? Featuring Afrika Mayibuye Movement’s Apostle…
22 Oct 1 hr 18 min

How do the numbers impact your vote? Decoding the upcoming elections

What do the numbers tell us about Johannesburg’s local elections? Political and economic analyst Paul Berkowitz joins Phumi Mashigo to unpack the data behind the upcoming local elections. Together they explore what the numbers could mean for Johannesburg, and beyond, and whether they tell the full story of what voters…
15 Oct 42 min

Who Gets Your Vote? A look at politicians’ promises

How do you decide who gets your vote? With South Africa’s political landscape offering more choices than ever, understanding what political parties actually believe has never been more important. In this episode, Phumi brings together highlights from conversations with politicians across the political spectrum, exploring what their parties stand for,…
8 Oct 18 min

The Race to Run Johannesburg - Your City, Their Plan

Johannesburg needs a mayor. But what does each candidate believe is broken, what do they want the city to become, and who pays for their plans? In this episode, Phumi Mashigo puts different candidates’ answers side by side, exploring their visions for Johannesburg, the cost of fixing the city, the…
1 Oct 33 min

Heritage, identity and where to from here?

As South Africa marks Heritage Day, Phumi Mashigo is joined by Zulu Royal Historian and author Shalo Mbatha to ask: what kind of South Africa are we building for the next 30 years? From King Shaka and the formation of the Zulu nation to apartheid, identity, inequality and belonging, they…
23 Sep 39 min