Democracy
latest news & developments
Why voters must put competence before race
South Africa's democracy can only deliver prosperity and better services when citizens move beyond racial and ethnic voting lines to demand accountability and competence.
‘There’s no such thing as apolitical music’: Siyabonga Mthembu on democracy, citizenship and Ngeke!
The Brother Moves On frontman Siyabonga Mthembu discusses why all music is political, the complexities of South African democracy, and why citizens must define the country's…
The vote was never the whole of freedom
Following local government elections, South Africa faces the critical task of translating the vote into municipal accountability, ethical governance, and sustained civic…
A moment in history
Reflecting on her granddaughter’s mock school election, Professor Thuli Madonsela examines why local government is the vital frontline of democracy, social justice, and ethical…
The ballot box is only the beginning
South Africa’s local elections present a crucial test of electoral integrity and democratic resilience, demonstrating whether declining support for ruling parties can coexist…
Beyond the ballot box, the people watching over South Africa’s elections
Beyond the political parties and candidates, thousands of election workers and observers ensure voting day functions. From managing queues to tackling accessibility hurdles,…
The long queues that once defined our democracy are becoming a distant memory
Reflecting on the historic, snaking queues that once defined South African democracy, a return to Tembisa exposes a troubling shift toward voter apathy and quiet polling stations.
IEC election readiness; equal to the task
Comparing election preparation to the intensity of the Soweto derby, IEC Chief Electoral Officer Sy Mamabolo outlines the systems, safeguards, and youth initiatives ensuring…
Mashatile urges South Africans to honour O.R. Tambo through active citizenship
Speaking at the annual O.R. Tambo wreath-laying ceremony, Deputy President Paul Mashatile urged South Africans to honour the liberation stalwart through active citizenship,…
The 23 million South Africans who chose not to vote last time are closer to anarchism than they think
With voter turnout dropping to historic lows in South Africa, millions are turning away from the ballot box. While disillusionment reflects deep-seated systemic failures, genuine…
Ramaphosa warns newsroom losses weaken democracy
Speaking at a Black Wednesday event, President Cyril Ramaphosa warned that newsroom job losses, digital disruption, and community media closures threaten democratic accountability.
Uganda at 64: Between confusion, fear, hope and back again
As Uganda marks 64 years of independence, the nation faces democratic backsliding, heightened political repression, and deep uncertainty over succession amidst the early…
The quality of voters will decide the 2026 Local Government Elections
As local government elections approach, the spotlight must shift from mayoral candidates and party lists to the voters themselves, whose demand for meritocracy will ultimately…
When crime starts calling the shots
Elections and constitutional structures can remain intact even as organised crime quietly infiltrates institutions. Insights from Colombia and South Africa reveal the growing…
From hope to fear: A tale of Zambia's democracy in contrast with other States
An analysis of Zambia's democratic trajectory following the 2026 elections, contrasting its civic space and challenges with governance trends across Africa.