Rédaction Africa Links 24 with Mark Heywood
Published on 2024-03-08 09:30:52
As we move further into 2024, the countdown to Friday 29 May, when the official election will take place, is well underway. However, there is a growing concern that democracy in South Africa may be in danger of being compromised by corrupt forces, at a great cost to the country. Despite the efforts of political parties tainted by corruption and State Capture to prepare for the upcoming elections, the principles of participatory democracy, social justice, and constitutionalism seem to be losing ground, raising concerns about the future of the country.
Recent analysis by Imraan Buccus in the Mail and Guardian has highlighted the potential dangers that lie ahead. If the ANC falls below 50% in the election, there is a risk that they may form an alliance with the EFF and MK party faction, leading to economic turmoil, increased corruption, heightened state repression, and a prolonged crisis that could take decades to resolve.
The declining popularity of the ANC has led to speculation about potential scenarios after the election. It is possible that a weakened ANC leadership, no longer reliant on President Ramaphosa’s influence, may remove him from power in favor of more corrupt individuals such as Deputy President Paul Mashatile and Gauteng Premier Panyaza Lesufi. These politicians have been linked to corruption and have shown little regard for democracy or the rule of law in their pursuit of power and personal gain.
The prospect of a future government led by corrupt individuals who have little respect for democratic principles is a cause for concern. If the ANC aligns with populist leaders who view participatory democracy as a Western construct and prefer a more authoritarian approach to governance, it could signal the end of democratic elections as we know them.
The years ahead are likely to be challenging, with global crises and increasing authoritarianism posing a threat to democratic governance. The proposed General Intelligence Laws Amendment Bill, described as a threat to democracy by experts, highlights the growing trend towards securitization of the state and the erosion of democratic principles.
Despite the bleak outlook, there are still opportunities to safeguard democracy and promote social justice. Civil society organizations, political parties, and individuals committed to social reform and poverty alleviation have a crucial role to play in shaping the future of the country. It is essential for all citizens to actively engage in the democratic process, mobilize voters, and advocate for a vision of change that prioritizes social justice and democracy.
As the 2024 election approaches, the choice facing South Africans is clear: to either stand up for democracy, social justice, and equality, or risk succumbing to authoritarianism and corruption. By actively participating in the democratic process and advocating for a better future, citizens can work towards building a more inclusive and equitable society for all.
Read the original article on Daily Maverick
