The failure to adequately articulate what a break from Zumaism entails has meant that many of its main features continue. A broad involvement of a range of sectors is necessary to renew South Africa's democratic life.
Crises in Cuba and South Africa: Background and Foreground
The ambiguity of ANC hegemony. It is very likely that the national elections to be held on May 8 will be free and fair and also, that the ANC will be returned with a majority of votes nationally, with varying results in the different provinces.
People cherished many expectations for Cyril Ramaphosa's presidency. Many of these were not necessarily realistic and may have derived from a sense of relief in the departure of Jacob Zuma, rather than what may have been possible for Ramaphosa to do.
The ANC is in crisis as the “new dawn” stalls. But are other parties ready to drive the democratic project? The DA has lapsed into continued internal conflict. The EFF is not interested in debate. That, too, is unconducive to democratic life.
There are a range of developments happening simultaneously now that throw a disquieting light on any democratic and potentially broader emancipatory project in South Africa. These do not receive much attention in media coverage or political discourse
It is time for Ramaphosa to take decisive steps. He does not have sufficient time left. The early months in office set the tone. He has taken important decisions. But this administration needs to develop a strong vision and communicate it.
Many Portside readers follow developments in the international socialist movement, including recent developments in South Africa. Here is the declaration from the recently concluded Congress of the South African Communist Party. Some readers may find it a hopeful sign of the SACP's returning to its role as a critical partner in the governing coalition with COSATU in the governing coalition. Others may feel that the SACP is not being critical enough. What do you think?
Reader Comments: Time for Impeachment - Differing responses from Portside readers; Voting - Gerrymandering, and Racial Segregation - Today; White Working-Class Voters and the Future of Progressive Politics; Chelsea Manning is Free!; News from South Africa -- COSATU Bans Zuma from Speaking at its Events; Jewish Voice for Peace video - Israel Palestine Conflict 101; and more...
South African President Jacob Zuma's reshuffling of Cabinet members without consulting the ANC has created a crisis. The trade union federation Cosatu and the South African Communist Party, have called upon him to resign. Zuma's opponents charge that he has disrespected the ANC and the country and that those who still protect him do so out of their own self-interest. He won’t go of his own volition and needs to be made to do so.
Spread the word