AI ‘hallucinations’ spark credibility crisis in SA policy

In the past two weeks, News24's eagle-eyed journos have uncovered evidence that artificial intelligence (AI) conjured up incorrect and misleading sources in two critical pieces of proposed government policy, one of which concerns the use of AI itself. The revelations have led to the suspension of top officials, and the DA, overseeing the two ministries where the policies were crafted, is enforcing stricter review measures in the government of national unity. We cross-check AI referencing in this edition with News24's Ethan van Diemen and William Brederode. Later in the show, Comic Con Cape Town has grown significantly over the past few years; organisers are eyeing an even larger venue for 2027. Finally, we mark Ruth First's birthday, with On This Day in SA History. Comment below and send our host, broadcast journalist Graeme Raubenheimer, a voice note: 072 562 3179. To advertise: thelead@24.com. Full editions drop on Monday, Wednesday, and Thursday at 19:00 on Spotify, Apple, and YouTube. The show is fully produced, presented and edited by Raubenheimer and quality-checked by News24's editors.