Ramaphosa could face policing probes; Samro’s R62m scandal; and is reading overrated?

The Weekend Wrap

Ramaphosa may be called to testify at policing inquiries, Samro’s R62m royalty scandal, and science tests reading vs listening - all in the Weekend Wrap.

Dithering Ramaphosa may have to testify before policing inquiries

Following claims made by Police Commissioner Fannie Masemola on Tuesday, President Cyril Ramaphosa may have to appear before the Madlanga Commission, while Parliament’s inquiry into South Africa’s policing also potentially has him in its sights.

By Rebecca Davis

Revealed — music publishing giants implicated in report on R62m irregular royalty claims at Samro

In 2022, the Southern African Music Rights Organisation COO, Mpho Mofikoe, commissioned an investigation into allegations of irregular royalty claims amounting to R62m by four of its board members and 56 other publishers or composers/authors. Upon its completion, Samro immediately buried the report, a copy of which Daily Maverick has finally obtained. This is the first instalment in a series of stories unpacking the report’s findings.

By Diana Neille

Paracetamol, pregnancy and autism — what the science really shows

The paracetamol-autism debate illustrates a familiar pattern: complex science being reduced to political soundbites. The overwhelming weight of evidence still supports paracetamol as the safest option for pregnant women when used as recommended.

By Dipa Kamdar

Making the DStv dish more appetising

With Canal+ in full operational control of DStv, Friday-night movie selection might just get a lot more difficult – and that’s a very good thing for South African viewers.

By Stephen Grootes

The Weekend Wrap

Ramaphosa may be called to testify at policing inquiries, Samro’s R62m royalty scandal, and science tests reading vs listening - all in the Weekend Wrap.

Dithering Ramaphosa may have to testify before policing inquiries

Following claims made by Police Commissioner Fannie Masemola on Tuesday, President Cyril Ramaphosa may have to appear before the Madlanga Commission, while Parliament’s inquiry into South Africa’s policing also potentially has him in its sights.

By Rebecca Davis

Revealed — music publishing giants implicated in report on R62m irregular royalty claims at Samro

In 2022, the Southern African Music Rights Organisation COO, Mpho Mofikoe, commissioned an investigation into allegations of irregular royalty claims amounting to R62m by four of its board members and 56 other publishers or composers/authors. Upon its completion, Samro immediately buried the report, a copy of which Daily Maverick has finally obtained. This is the first instalment in a series of stories unpacking the report’s findings.

By Diana Neille

Paracetamol, pregnancy and autism — what the science really shows

The paracetamol-autism debate illustrates a familiar pattern: complex science being reduced to political soundbites. The overwhelming weight of evidence still supports paracetamol as the safest option for pregnant women when used as recommended.

By Dipa Kamdar

Making the DStv dish more appetising

With Canal+ in full operational control of DStv, Friday-night movie selection might just get a lot more difficult – and that’s a very good thing for South African viewers.

By Stephen Grootes

Social Development quietly removes inexperienced 22-year-old Chief of Staff

Minister of Social Development Sisisi Tolashe’s controversial senior appointment has been rescinded – but young Lesedi Mabiletja still holds a job in the department that she remains unqualified for.

By Rebecca Davis

Humanitarian flotilla under attack, en route to break Gaza siege

The Global Sumud Flotilla, more than 50 vessels filled with humanitarian activists from countries including South Africa, has come under attack en route to Gaza.

By Mel Frykberg