ZAOwnership & classification
Founded: 2009
Ownership
Daily Maverick is a South African online news outlet co-founded in 2009 by Branko Brkic (Serbian-born editor-in-chief) and Styli Charalambous. It is owned through a holding company whose shareholders are largely non-profits and trusts; the largest single shareholder is the South African non-profit Inkululeko South Africa Media, with smaller stakes held by various trusts and by the founders themselves. No state, party or single oligarch controls it.
Funding
It runs a hybrid revenue model: reader memberships and donations (Maverick Insider), philanthropic grants, advertising and events.
Affiliation & stance
Daily Maverick is independently owned by a spread of trusts, non-profits and its founders, with no party or government control, which is why it is classified INDEPENDENT. It is known for hard-hitting investigative journalism (e.g. Scorpio unit) and a broadly liberal, accountability-focused editorial stance rather than partisan alignment.
Editorial lean
- Our estimate
- Lean Left
- Measured from coverage
- Centerbased on 353
83/100
Factual
78/100
Objective
574
Articles
574
reports
Top stories
Most covered right now
U.S. and Iran agree to cease attacks and return to talks
World Cup round-up: Messi breaks scoring record, Algeria survive, but Jordan are eliminated
Morocco won the world's respect after eliminating the Netherlands
RUGBY: England scalp is on the Springboks’ to-do list
ANALYSIS: DA divisions: If he wanted loyalty, why didn’t Steenhuisen just get a dog?
Business Unity South Africa calls for urgent reform of the Unemployment Insurance Fund
GAMEDAY | Bafana chase World Cup miracle in historic knockout clash against Canada
PANTOMIME VILLAIN: Public enemy No 1 Henry Pollock backs up his antics with performances
GROUNDUP: Thousands of immigrants stuck in Musina with little food, water or shelter
Recent coverage
MADLANGA COMMISSION: Feroz Khan — Centrifugal force in SAPS tender dealings with tobacco bosses, inquiry hears
The Madlanga Commission of Inquiry is examining the alleged connections between Major-General Feroz Khan, a high-ranking South African Police Service (SAPS) official, and business figures including Carnilinx Tobacco Company founder Mohammed 'Mo' Sayed and director Adriano Mazzotti. Khan, who was illegally appointed as acting national head of Crime Intelligence, is currently hospitalized and unable to testify. Evidence presented includes communications from confiscated iPhones, revealing ties to procurement deals involving PPE and other tenders, as well as links to former President Jacob Zuma's political circle. Mazzotti, who has supported Economic Freedom Fighters (EFF) leader Julius Malema, attempted to block the commission from considering past legal issues involving his company. The inquiry also explores potential collusion between Khan and Malema to undermine former Inspector-General of Intelligence Dr Selumanthuro Dintwe.
EMPTY POCKETS: Sheriff seizes Joburg assets as City admits late payment forced closure of service centre
The City of Johannesburg admitted that a payment dispute led to the Sheriff of the Court seizing assets from its Thuso House customer service center, causing its temporary closure. The City paid over R3.4 million to resolve the matter and plans to retrieve the seized items. Thuso House serves as the main customer service hub for the city, handling billing and account inquiries. While the City apologized for the disruption, it did not disclose details about the debt, the creditor, or the specific assets taken. This incident highlights ongoing financial challenges affecting municipal operations, with similar issues recently impacting other services like the Johannesburg Roads Agency and police department.
BORDER ADMIN: New Customs declarations: what you need to know before you travel
Starting 1 July 2026, all travelers passing through South Africa's air, land, sea, and rail ports of entry must submit an online traveler declaration before departing. The declaration is part of the South African Traveller Management System (SATMS), designed to improve border monitoring, enhance inter-agency data sharing, and support risk management. Travelers must declare items such as currency and other regulated goods, with submissions possible via SARS' online portal, mobile app, or QR code scanning. While failure to complete the declaration won't result in denial of entry, completing it in advance is recommended to avoid delays and administrative issues, especially during busy travel times. SARS provides resources and assistance at ports of entry for those unable to pre-declare.
An American gets the maximum amount of recovery time at Wimbledon.
The article discusses the scheduling of the first-round doubles match at Wimbledon involving American tennis player Serena Williams and her sister Venus Williams against the Argentine-Colombian pair Solana Sierra and Camila Osorio. The match was initially scheduled for Thursday and Friday but has been postponed due to Serena's injury during her singles match. Tournament organizer Andy Murray (likely a misstatement, as Andy Murray is a British player, and the correct name might be someone like Ashley Barker or another official) stated they are giving Serena as much time as possible to recover. They ruled out postponing the match to later dates unless necessary for safety or tournament flow. The match is expected to take place on a larger court to accommodate the large crowd attracted by Serena and Venus, who are major stars. Serena returned to professional tennis after four years, but she lost her first singles match and injured her knee. She did not attend a press conference afterward due to health reasons and expressed her commitment to participating in the doubles event. Serena and Venus have won six doubles titles together, including a title in 2016.
Ukraine reports two dead after night attacks by Russia, with the death toll in Kiev rising to 30.
At least two people were killed and eight injured in Russian air strikes on the Sumy region and Kryvyj Rih in Ukraine during the night of Thursday to Friday, according to Ukrainian authorities. This follows a large-scale Russian attack on Kyiv earlier in the week which killed at least 30 people and injured around 100 others. In response to the attacks, Ukraine conducted missile strikes on Belgorod in Russia, causing a fire at an energy facility and killing one woman, according to Russian media. The overnight strike on the city of Romny in the Sumy region hit a residential building, killing two women and injuring a man, reported regional administrator Oleh Hryhorov via Telegram. Another seven people were injured in a missile strike on Kryvyj Rih, according to military city administrator Oleksandr Vilkul. In Kyiv, teams discovered three more dead bodies during the night, bringing the total number of victims to 30, according to Reuters citing Ukrainian health authorities. Kyiv's military administrator Tymur Tkačenko stated that the attack injured 99 people. Moscow claimed the extensive attack was a response to Ukrainian strikes on Russian energy infrastructure, including those carried
WEEKEND WRAP: What comes next after 30 June, a timely warning for travellers and how to get good sleep
The article covers multiple topics, including immigration issues, political appointments, and travel advisories. It reports on police actions against undocumented foreigners in East London, referencing a proposed fine law that has not yet taken effect. It also discusses the impact of migration on government legitimacy, mentioning political figures like Dina Pule and President Ramaphosa. Additionally, it warns travelers about potential risks at South African airports and touches on ongoing investigations related to security and mining sectors.
Court Appearance: Alleged Gqeberha hitman arrested for killing Nelson Mandela Bay ANC councillor Sicelo Mleve
A 20-year-old man named Lufunolwethu Nyodi made his first court appearance on 3 July 2026, accused of participating in the murder of Nelson Mandela Bay ANC councillor Sicelo Mleve. The incident occurred on 20 June when two gunmen attacked Mleve's office during a meeting, demanding cellphones and fatally shooting him. Nyodi faces charges of murder, armed robbery, and firearm possession, with prosecutors likely opposing bail. Eastern Cape Police Commissioner Vuyisile Ncata stated the investigation is advanced and suggested the killing might have been politically motivated, though no conclusive evidence has been presented. Mleve was under protection services in 2024 but had stopped using them prior to the attack. This marks the third councillor killed in the region during the current term, prompting heightened security for other local officials.
In the tropical Pacific, El Niño conditions have set in, researchers say.
The article reports that researchers from New Zealand’s Earth Sciences organization (ESNZ) have identified conditions consistent with the El Niño climate phenomenon in the tropical Pacific. They warn that impacts on New Zealand’s weather are likely to intensify over the coming months. The ESNZ joined other organizations in Australia, Japan, and the U.S. in confirming the development of El Niño, which is expected to reach strong intensity between July and September. The effects are projected to peak during the Southern Hemisphere summer, spanning late 2023 into early 2024. According to lead researcher Chris Brandolini, this El Niño event is at least comparable in strength to five of the strongest recorded El Niños in modern history. The article outlines regional rainfall expectations, noting potential below-average precipitation in some areas and above-normal levels in others. It also mentions possible temperature fluctuations and increased wind variability later in the year. Additionally, it notes two lower-probability risks: sudden stratospheric warming and the occurrence of a tropical cyclone outside the typical season, both historically linked to El Niño. Brandolini connects the
CLEANING UP: From pigs to plants — Self-sufficiency in small-town Genadendal
In Genadendal, Western Cape, Marshall Rinquest, outreach manager for the Greyton Farm Animal Sanctuary, initiated the 'Pigs to Plants' program to transition local pig farmers into vegetable producers. Inspired by concerns over animal welfare and his son's questions about cruelty, Rinquest aimed to provide a sustainable alternative to pig rearing. The initiative includes market access through weekly farmers' markets and has seen success with high-value crops like purple basil and rhubarb. The project builds on the Greyton Transition Town Movement, which focuses on small-town sustainability, including food security and environmental education. Support comes from organizations such as Humane World for Animals South Africa.
GROUNDUP: SA’s repatriation effort exposes the human cost of immigration enforcement
Thousands of immigrants were left stranded at the Musina showgrounds in Limpopo after being denied entry into South Africa, leading to reports of hunger and displacement. On Thursday, these individuals were transferred to a newly established repatriation center, Proefplaas Farm operation center, approximately 20 km outside Musina. Many reported relying on family, friends, or informal work such as haircutting to afford basic needs like food. Local churches and organizations like Gift of the Givers provided essential supplies including food, water, and hygiene products, though some residents still expressed concerns over inadequate food and lack of bathing facilities. Provincial government officials, including ministers from various departments, inspected the repatriation center and the Beitbridge border post to assess conditions.
Muhammed Latif: The South African entrepreneur and comedian making waves
Muhammed Latif is a South African entrepreneur and comedian who operates a business in the fuel and retail sector while performing stand-up comedy across Africa and Europe. Born in Zeerust, he co-owns two Shell service stations, one of which hosts multiple businesses. Latif gained attention during the COVID-19 pandemic by launching 'Sit Down Comedy,' an Instagram Live platform that connected comedians with global audiences. He received recognition in 2020, including nominations for the South African Comedy Awards, and later won the Best of Bedfordview Comedy Competition. In 2023, he was selected for the Savanna Comics' Choice Comedy Awards. Latif performs in major South African cities and internationally in places like Paris and Istanbul, collaborating with notable comedians. His work blends entrepreneurial success with a commitment to meaningful connections through comedy.
Newsletters: I have a picture for you! 27 June-03 July 2026
The article is a call for readers to submit their photographs to the 'First Thing' newsletter, which is part of the Daily Maverick publication. It outlines submission guidelines, including preferred image orientation and resolution, and mentions a limit of 20 submissions per week. The piece features several submitted photos with captions and photographers, showcasing various scenes such as people waiting for transportation, natural landscapes, and social events. The article emphasizes inclusivity and encourages both amateur and professional photographers to contribute, while noting that the publication does not offer monetary compensation for submitted images.
FLIPPING THE BIRD: Ntshavheni says SA diplomat will face action for ‘hobnobbing’ with Zuma and Ajay Gupta
Minister Khumbudzo Ntshavheni condemned South African High Commissioner to India Anil Sooklal for attending an event with former President Jacob Zuma and Ajay Gupta, a figure implicated in state capture scandals. Photos from the event, held at a temple in India, showed the trio together, prompting an investigation by Minister Ronald Lamola. Ntshavheni criticized Sooklal for undermining South Africa's legal system and failing to uphold the country's interests. While the National Prosecuting Authority confirms no warrants exist against Gupta, the Guptas have evaded extradition efforts. Ntshavheni also criticized Zuma for continuing to engage with controversial figures despite past misconduct.
Overlooked
Under-reported & one-sided
Man dies after setting himself on fire outside UN headquarters in New York: police
TURNING POINT: Tuesday, 30 June 2026 — the day the SA state ceded power to rabble-rousers
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CALL TO ACTION: Urgent appeal to health workers: Reject the 30 June deadline and help victims of xenophobia
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Looming carnage: On the dangerous anti-migrant mobilisation in South Africa
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SAPS in crisis — SA needs better way of appointing senior police officers
Revealing the truth: Ethical misconduct in South African psychology
US, Iran reach preliminary agreement to end war, signing set for Friday
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