Youth mockumentary probes G20 summit in Johannesburg

A new episode of the satirical series Politically Aweh delves into the Johannesburg G20 summit, highlighting youth uprisings across Africa. Hosts KG Mokgadi and Zoë Human navigate restricted access to leaders, blending comedy with calls for accountability. Activists from Kenya and Madagascar voice frustrations over unfulfilled promises.

The Johannesburg G20 global leaders summit drew attention not just for diplomatic talks, but for the voices of a younger generation demanding change. In a mockumentary-style episode of Politically Aweh, reminiscent of Michael Moore's films, hosts KG Mokgadi and Zoë Human set out to confront world leaders about pressing issues. However, they encounter barriers: media are confined to a warehouse, viewing proceedings on screens, while actual access remains elusive.

Undeterred, the duo pushes past barricades, infiltrates receptions, and questions spokespeople. At one point, Mokgadi poses a direct query amid the chaos: “Is this normal?” The episode weaves in perspectives from African youth activists. Kenyan comedian Justine Wanda emphasizes simplicity: “We just want to be free, man.” From Madagascar, youth leader Elliot Randriamandrato describes a pivotal shift: “The tipping point for younger people in the world is the moment to say no to this and fight for our liberty.” Public Affairs Research Institute executive director Dr Sithembile Mbete echoes the sentiment: “If you are not going to meet your end of the bargain, we want you out.”

Satire punctuates the narrative, with Office-like confessionals exposing summit absurdities. Mokgadi attempts to alert President Cyril Ramaphosa to brewing uprisings in countries like Kenya, Madagascar, and Tanzania. Later, at a opulent reception, he probes why governmental efficiency surges only for international visitors. As the summit concludes with self-congratulatory remarks from leaders, the film redirects focus to grassroots momentum. Wanda urges action: “Go out into the world and build the world that you want to see.”

Aired on December 12, 2025, this installment underscores how youth movements, amplified on platforms like TikTok, WhatsApp, and Discord, challenge global power structures.

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Dramatic illustration of empty chairs for boycotting leaders at South Africa's G20 summit in Johannesburg, highlighting US absence and global tensions.
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U.S. boycott of South Africa’s G20 summit deepens rift over race claims and summit agenda

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The United States is boycotting South Africa's G20 Leaders' Summit, citing discredited allegations about attacks on white Afrikaners and objections to what it calls a diversity and climate-focused agenda. The unprecedented absence of the world's largest economy, alongside other no‑shows by leaders from Argentina, China and Russia for varying reasons, has cast a shadow over the gathering in Johannesburg.

The Pan South African Language Board has selected 'G20' as South Africa's Word of the Year for 2025, highlighting the landmark G20 Leaders' Summit hosted in the country. This choice underscores the event's significance as the first such gathering on African soil. Other notable terms reflect political and cultural shifts in the nation.

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US President Donald Trump announced on November 26, 2025, that South Africa will not be invited to the 2026 G20 summit in Miami, Florida, citing a refusal to hand over the presidency during the recent Johannesburg summit. South Africa's government described the move as punitive and based on misinformation. Other G20 members, including Germany, have expressed support for South Africa's continued participation.

The African National Congress's National General Council begins this week in Boksburg, focusing on party performance and renewal without discussing leadership changes. Deputy President Paul Mashatile affirmed that President Cyril Ramaphosa will remain in office until the end of his term in 2027. Rumors of a plot to remove him have been firmly denied by party structures.

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In South Africa, the growing dependence on social media to expose crimes has led to swift official responses, but experts warn it highlights deeper issues in state capacity. Lungisani Mngadi argues that this crowdsourced accountability creates uneven justice and fails to prevent harm. True governance requires institutions that act proactively, not just reactively to public outcry.

In a new episode of The Readiness Report, host Redi Tlhabi discusses with Corruption Watch's Lebogang Ramafoko the Madlanga Commission and why Police Minister Senzo Mchunu has not been fired despite ongoing crises. The conversation highlights failures in political accountability and the limited impact of inquiry commissions. It explores how party politics often prioritizes protection over public interest.

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Daily Maverick's Maverick Life newsletter reflects on 2025 by featuring standout podcasts, shows, and music that addressed South Africa's key issues and celebrated local talent. The selection covers topics from urban leadership challenges to cultural exchanges, providing a snapshot of the year's audio highlights.

Alhamisi, 1. Mwezi wa kwanza 2026, 23:27:46

Museveni asema Uganda ilizuia maandamano kama ya Kenya

Ijumaa, 26. Mwezi wa kumi na mbili 2025, 04:37:09

Norway’s ambassador leaves on a high note after G20 participation

Jumapili, 21. Mwezi wa kumi na mbili 2025, 14:52:55

G20 Sherpas Object to US Exclusion of South Africa

Jumatano, 17. Mwezi wa kumi na mbili 2025, 11:30:57

Uhuru Kenyatta asifu ujasiri wa Gen Z na kuwahimiza wachukue uongozi

Ijumaa, 12. Mwezi wa kumi na mbili 2025, 04:35:46

South Africa urges G20 members to protest US exclusion

Jumapili, 30. Mwezi wa kumi na moja 2025, 19:40:54

Ramaphosa dismisses Trump's G20 exclusion threat

Jumatatu, 24. Mwezi wa kumi na moja 2025, 03:36:13

Takaichi meets Modi at G20 summit in Johannesburg

Jumapili, 23. Mwezi wa kumi na moja 2025, 06:49:57

South Korean president wraps up G20 summit, heads to Turkey

Jumamosi, 22. Mwezi wa kumi na moja 2025, 10:59:42

Gibran highlights human suffering at G20 summit in Johannesburg

Alhamisi, 20. Mwezi wa kumi na moja 2025, 04:40:48

Lee set to head for G20 in Johannesburg after Egypt visit

 

 

 

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