South African Politics and Society

This article examines the multifaceted Russian involvement in the Anglo-Boer War (1899-1902), detailing the widespread pro-Boer sentiment among the Russian populace, the sympathetic yet cautious stance of Tsar Nicholas II and his government, and the direct military participation of Russian volunteers and observers. Drawing on official military dispatches, private letters, memoirs, and archival records, this paper analyses the motivations behind Russian support, which ranged from geopolitical rivalry with Great Britain to a popular perception of the conflict as a righteous struggle of David against Goliath. It provides a historical analysis of the Russian state's official and unofficial military engagement, including the deployment of military agents to both Boer and British forces and the battlefield experiences of Russian volunteers. Special attention is given to the roles of key individuals like Colonel Yevgeny Maximov and the complex dynamics within volunteer units such as the Russian Corps. The study concludes that while official Russian policy was constrained by geopolitical realities, the profound sympathy from the Russian people and the active involvement of individual Russians constituted a significant, though often overlooked, chapter of the war.

An Imam-led Community: Demographics, Social Cohesion, and the Authority of Cape Muslim Leaders in 19th-Century Colonial Cape Town



ABSTRACT
This subsection analyses an 1839 community census, meticulously compiled by Imams in colonial Cape Town, to highlight the profound social and administrative authority of Muslim religious leaders. The data, which meticulously records the number of men, women, and children within each Imam’s congregation, transcends a simple demographic survey. It reveals a highly organized, cohesive, and self-governing community led by a hierarchy of spiritual leaders. By contextualizing the census within the broader colonial landscape, this study argues that the Imams’ census-taking was a strategic act of self-determination, a means of asserting communal autonomy and constructing a parallel power structure that prioritized religious and social bonds over colonial control.
Key Words:
Imam; demographics; social cohesion; British colonial Cape Town; colonial landscape; communal autonomy; power structure; social bonds; census-taking; self-governing community, and hierarchy of spiritual leaders.

‘I was always compelled by the simple motto of our founding mothers, “Lift as you climb”: help others to succeed’, writes Joyce Piliso-Seroke in her memoir Jwara! Induna’s Daughter. When we look at her life journey, we see that this motto is strongly reflected in her activism and character. Piliso-Seroke is a former social worker, gender activist, and anti-apartheid activist who worked for the Young Women's Christian Association and was actively involved in various activist organisations, during and after apartheid. Surrounded by women leaders throughout her life, women’s rights and empowerment have been a core focus of her work and activism. She fought alongside other influential South African women activists who became her idols, companions, and close friends. Conversely, Piliso-Seroke herself became an inspiration for women in South Africa, the United Kingdom, and the United States. So far, there is only little scholarship about Joyce Piliso-Seroke’s crucial contributions to the struggle against apartheid and for women’s rights and on her role in the establishment of South Africa’s transnational ties. Drawing primarily on her memoir and on a personal interview with her, this article responds to this gap and pays tribute.

يتناول هذا المقال كتاب إفريقيا وإعادة النظر في العلاقات المدنية–العسكرية (2023م)، الذي يستعرض تحولات أدوار الجيوش في القارة من الانقلابات المباشرة التي ميّزت عقود ما بعد الاستقلال، إلى أشكال جديدة من النفوذ عبر الاقتصاد والسياسة والأمن الإقليمي. ويعتمد الكتاب على بحوث ميدانية ومقابلات موسعة أجراها موسى خيسا وكريستوفر داي في عدة دول إفريقية، ما أتاح الكشف عن تعقيدات العلاقة بين السلطة المدنية والمؤسسة العسكرية. ومن خلال فصوله الثمانية، يناقش قضايا مثل الشرعية والانقلابات، دور الاتحاد الإفريقي، الحروب المعاصرة، وإصلاح قطاع الأمن. ويقدّم الكتاب في مجمله مقاربة نقدية تفتح المجال لتطوير فهم إفريقي أصيل للعلاقات المدنية–العسكرية يتجاوز الأطر التفسيرية التقليدية.

Violence has become a pervasive part of the social fabric of South African society. A front-page article in a recent Sunday paper cautioned that violent crime is threatening to turn South Africa’s public schools into war zones.1 Other newspapers have also

This study critically examines the paradox of Carel van de Kaap, also known as Hadje Gasnodien, a prominent Muslim priest and pilgrim in 19th-century Cape Town. By analyzing his complex historical record, this analysis presents a twofold argument. Firstly, it contends that his headstone is a powerful primary source that transcends its function as a funerary marker to become an assertion of a distinct cultural and religious identity. Secondly, it argues that his documented role as a slave owner was not driven by economic gain but was a strategic manoeuvre to facilitate the manumission of enslaved individuals. This study posits that both his personal transactions and his final monument represent a resilient, community-driven network designed to subvert the colonial system and assert communal sovereignty.

This paper explores narrative monologue as a medium for depicting history in Nadine Gordimer's Burger's Daughter by applying discourse-based analysis. The study's objective is to examine the novel's events that are told from an interior narrative perspective and how they depict historical phases in the course of the novel's plot. On the one hand, it examines the characters' internal monologue and how it functions as an expression of the characters' communicative relationships. On the other hand, it demonstrates how narrative monologue serves as a means of allegorical depiction of the historical layers related to the anti-Apartheid movement in South Africa. Therefore, the study's methodology depends on a close reading of the characters' internal monologue. Furthermore, it conducts a textual analysis of the historical narrative implications regarding the anti-Apartheid struggle portrayed in the fictional events of the plot. In this way, the study makes a narrative and historical interpretation of literary allegory employed by Gordimer to paint a vivid picture of contemporary anti-Apartheid activism. Therefore, the study will examine the thematic characteristics of apartheid and how it influences the characters'

In its engagement in the post-apartheid democratic transition to political democracy in South Africa, the Congress of South African Trade Unions (COSATU) and key affiliates, developed an ideological and strategic orientation described by scholars as "radical reform" or "structural reform." COSATU and many trade unions continue to be profoundly shaped by the "radical reform" (RR) model. The aim of this input is to examine the RR model, which was an attempt to build on the many key progressive gains won by workers and their organisations through struggle in the 1980s, and push through to a deeper social, political and economic transformation in the 1990s. This input defines the key components of RR, and examines why this innovative response to the parliamentary transition and to capitalist globalisation was not successful. It focuses on issues of neoliberal capitalist and state domination, the impact of RR on the unions, and the effects of the institutionalisation of trade union activity and industrial relations processes. It raises deeper questions about unions' approaches to politics.

The study here proposed is an analysis of militarisation processes of hegemonic masculinities by an intersectional feminist lens and their impacts on peacebuilding and international security, taking Italy as contextual reference. Moreover, an attempt to develop an approach to demilitarisation of masculinity identifies is made, in order to enhance the transformation of violent conflicts and make peacebuilding more effective 2 .

Extended families can distribute the impact of shocks such as adult deaths across multiple households by pooling resources and by exchanging household members. The consequences of the AIDS epidemic in Africa will depend, therefore, on how the demographic and economic dynamics of households interact. This paper uses

United Nations World Food Programme (Uganda) commends the support, cooperation and guidance provided during this assessment. WFP is greatly indebted to the IDP households in Acholi, Lango and Teso regions and to the Karamojong households and community leaders for sparing their time to respond to the study questionnaire and for the support accorded to the team. Special thanks are accorded to the enumerators that administered the study questionnaire and the WFP staff for the extra time and effort they put in that rendered the exercise a success. Special recognition is made to

LEARNING FROM THE PROGRESSIVE ECONOMY OF BOPHUTHATSWANA: A CASE STUDY IN GOVERNANCE AND DEVELOPMENT

BY MATTHEWS MOOKETSANE BANTSIJANG

TABLE OF CONTENTS
Learning from the Progressive Economy of Bophuthatswana: A Case Study in Governance and Development 1
By Matthews Mooketsane Bantsijang 1
Abstract 2
Introduction 2
Visionary Leadership: A Synthesis of Tradition and Modernity 3
Economic Strategy: Pragmatic Neoliberalism in Action 3
Education as a Pillar of Development 4
Sound Governance and Infrastructure Development 5
Economic Integration and Interdependence 5
Bophuthatswana Transport Holdings Success Story 6
💡 Economic Lessons from BTH's Success 6
Challenges and Decline Post-Transition 7
Summary of Practical Insights for Contemporary Application 8
Conclusion 8
References 9

Learning from the Progressive Economy of Bophuthatswana: A Case Study in Governance and Development
By Matthews Mooketsane Bantsijang

ABSTRACT

Bophuthatswana, a Bantustan in South Africa, presents a unique case study of economic and governance strategies that fostered relative stability and development during the apartheid era. Under the leadership of Chief Lucas Mangope from 1977 to 1994, Bophuthatswana adopted a blend of traditional values and modern economic principles, resulting in notable achievements in education, infrastructure, and social service delivery. This paper explores the key lessons from Bophuthatswana's progressive economy, offering insights for contemporary governance and development in similarly constrained contexts.

INTRODUCTION

The historical context of Bophuthatswana as a Bantustan under apartheid presents a paradox of governance and economic management. Despite its political illegitimacy and the overarching constraints of apartheid, Bophuthatswana's leadership implemented policies that led to significant advancements in various sectors. This research paper aims to analyze the elements of Bophuthatswana's economy and governance, highlighting the lessons that can be applied to contemporary developing economies.

VISIONARY LEADERSHIP: A SYNTHESIS OF TRADITION AND MODERNITY

Embracing Communal Values

Bophuthatswana's leadership exemplified a unique synthesis of traditional African values and modern governance principles. The motto “Motho ke motho ka batho ba bangwe” ("a person is a person through other persons") encapsulated the emphasis on collective progress and human dignity. This approach fostered social cohesion and trust among the populace, essential for effective governance.

Governance Integrity

The leadership's commitment to avoiding corruption, nepotism, and tribalism was pivotal. By practicing fair recruitment and governance, Bophuthatswana established a meritocratic system that garnered public trust and facilitated effective administration.

ECONOMIC STRATEGY: PRAGMATIC NEOLIBERALISM IN ACTION

A Mixed Economy Model

Bophuthatswana's economic strategy diverged from the expected norms of a Bantustan. The territory adopted a mixed economy with strong elements of market liberalism, focusing on attracting foreign direct investment through the establishment of special economic zones. This pragmatic approach allowed for a degree of economic independence and growth.

Education and Labour Relations

The emphasis on nonracial education, particularly in mathematics and science, equipped the workforce with essential skills. Peaceful labour relations and affordable labour costs further enhanced Bophuthatswana's attractiveness to investors, contributing to economic stability.

EDUCATION AS A PILLAR OF DEVELOPMENT

Commitment to Nonracial Education

Bophuthatswana prioritized education, establishing institutions such as the University of Bophuthatswana and teacher training colleges. The focus on nonracial, child-centred education fostered a generation of skilled professionals who would later contribute to post-apartheid governance and economic development.

Challenges in Educational Equity

Despite these advancements, Bophuthatswana's education system faced challenges related to funding and equity, exacerbated by the broader constraints of apartheid. Nonetheless, the commitment to educational excellence remains a critical lesson for contemporary policy-makers.


SOUND GOVERNANCE AND INFRASTRUCTURE DEVELOPMENT

Investment in Critical Infrastructure

Bophuthatswana's government made significant investments in infrastructure, including housing, water, health, and transport. This focus on tangible socio-economic growth over vanity projects ensured that resources were directed towards improving the quality of life for citizens.

Humility in Leadership

Public servants and ministers lived modestly among communities, reinforcing the values of humility and unity. This approach not only enhanced governance but also fostered a sense of belonging and community engagement.

ECONOMIC INTEGRATION AND INTERDEPENDENCE

Acknowledging Economic Realities

Bophuthatswana's leadership recognized the economic interdependence with South Africa, promoting cooperation over confrontation. This pragmatic stance enabled the leveraging of shared resources, particularly in sectors such as mining and tourism, which became vital to the territory's economy.

BOPHUTHATSWANA TRANSPORT HOLDINGS SUCCESS STORY

Economic lesson from the successful story of Bophuthatswana Transport Holdings (BTH)

The economic success of Bophuthatswana Transport Holdings (BTH) offers powerful lessons in how transport infrastructure can stimulate broader economic development. BTH’s story is a reminder that transport is not just a service—it's a strategic economic asset. Its legacy offers a blueprint for how developing regions can use infrastructure to unlock growth, inclusion, and resilience.  Here are the key economic insights drawn from its story:

💡 ECONOMIC LESSONS FROM BTH'S SUCCESS
1. Transport as an Economic Engine
• BTH demonstrated that efficient public transport systems are not just about mobility—they’re catalysts for economic activity.
• By connecting rural areas to urban centers, BTH enabled labor mobility, market access, and the growth of small businesses.
2. Job Creation and Skills Development
• The expansion of BTH created thousands of jobs—from drivers and mechanics to depot managers and administrative staff.
• It also fostered technical skills and vocational training, contributing to human capital development in Bophuthatswana.
3. Public-Private Synergy
• BTH thrived under a model where the government provided infrastructure and regulatory support, while private operators handled service delivery.
• This hybrid approach encouraged entrepreneurship while maintaining service standards and affordability.
4. Infrastructure Investment Multiplier
• Investments in roads, depots, and airports (like Mmabatho International Airport) had a multiplier effect—boosting tourism, trade, and real estate development.
• Economic zones around transport hubs became magnets for commerce and investment.
5. Tourism and Regional Growth
• BTH’s integration with tourism—especially routes to Sun City and game parks—helped diversify the economy and increase foreign exchange earnings.
• Transport accessibility made Bophuthatswana a more attractive destination for both domestic and international tourists.
6. Revenue Generation and Fiscal Sustainability
• BTH operated as a revenue-generating entity, reducing dependence on government subsidies.
• Its profitability showed that state-owned enterprises can be financially sustainable when well-managed.

CHALLENGES AND DECLINE POST-TRANSITION

Economic Vulnerabilities

Despite initial successes, Bophuthatswana faced significant challenges post-apartheid. Key sectors, particularly agriculture, struggled due to political patronage and the dismantling of support services. Additionally, the reliance on South African transfers and migrant labour limited true economic independence.

Governance Issues

The latter years of Bophuthatswana were marred by corruption and political repression, undermining the integrity of governance that had characterized its earlier years. These challenges serve as cautionary tales for contemporary governance.

SUMMARY OF PRACTICAL INSIGHTS FOR CONTEMPORARY APPLICATION

Aspect  Lesson & Importance                                                               
Leadership  Combine traditional values with firm, meritocratic governance to gain trust and social cohesion.
Economic Model          A mixed economy with market-friendly, nonracial policies and foreign investment attracts sustainable growth.
Education Policy        Focus on quality, discipline, and science/math excellence with limits on political interference, which fosters skilled human capital.
Social Infrastructure    Prioritize critical services and infrastructure over vanity projects for broader impact on quality of life.
Regional Integration      Acknowledge and build on economic interdependence to avoid isolation and leverage shared prosperity.

CONCLUSION

Bophuthatswana's experiment in governance and economic management illustrates that even under severe constraints, visionary leadership committed to pragmatic governance, economic openness, education, and social development can yield meaningful progress. The territory's blend of African communal values, modern neoliberal reforms, educational commitment, and governance integrity offers enduring lessons for developing economies facing complex social and political challenges. To learn from Bophuthatswana today means to embrace a collective vision for long-term prosperity, prioritize education and human capital development, and foster inclusive economic policies within an integrated regional context, all while safeguarding governance ethics and social cohesion.

REFERENCES

1. Bophuthatswana Government. (1994). Annual Economic Report. Bophuthatswana: Government Printer.
2. Mangope, L. (1994). Leadership in Bophuthatswana: A Historical Perspective. Pretori...

Mozambique has substantial solar power potential (23,000GWe) yet only 83MWe of installed capacity (representing 2% of the total 3623MWe generation capacity). Meanwhile, 44% of the population has electricity access, making Mozambique one of the least-electrified countries. Efforts to scale-up off-grid solar photovoltaics and improve rural electrification face key sociotechnical challenges. Using interview data from 33 national stakeholders, we identify the key policy, inter-agency coordination, socio-cultural development, and institution-driven actions needed to overcome these challenges. We introduce the concept of a 'social multiplier effect' to explain how small-scale electricity access improvements increase public demand for gridbased electrification, demonstrating how this can drive socioeconomic benefits to rural and peri-urban areas. We call for coordinated actions from policy and market actors, advocating for policy coherence and increased private sector involvement to boost investment, regulation and innovation in off-grid solar technologies, ultimately achieving universal electricity access and improving social development outcomes in Mozambique.

A theoretical lens: The strain theory developed by American sociologist, Robert Merton (1938:672-673).

Background: In post-apartheid South Africa, much has been written about political killings or political assassinations, particularly at the local government level. Many studies carried out on this topic focus mostly on factionalism and internal squabbles within the African National Congress (ANC). Little attention has been paid to the impact of political careerism on political killings at the local government level.

Aim: This article seeks to explore and discuss the impact of political careerism on political killings at the local government level in South Africa.

Methods: The article relied on secondary data from accredited journal articles, scholarly books, official reports, academic dissertations and conference proceedings. A qualitative desktop analysis of data was employed.

Results: Policy recommendations are suggested to remedy political killings and promote peaceful conflict resolution within political parties. Conclusion: High unemployment and a lack of job opportunities drive individuals, particularly youth, to pursue political careers for economic gain, resulting in conflicts and assassinations.

Contribution: There are two main contributions in this article. Firstly, it underscores how political careerism within the ANC has led to the rise of quasi-politicians who prioritise personal enrichment over development and public service. Secondly, it connects economic conditions to political behaviour. As a result of high unemployment and a lack of entrepreneurial opportunities, the youth, mainly in the ANC, pursue political careers as a path to economic opportunities.

études du monde africain contemporain. Gy, ce 17/09/2025 Résumé Cet article interroge le rôle des religions et organisations cultiques en Afrique comme instruments de contamination et de domination à travers la notion d'égrégore. En mobilisant la Coafrwologie-science panafricaine de la justice, de l'ordre et de la renaissance-il montre comment les religions exogènes ont contribué à l'aliénation spirituelle et culturelle, tandis que les traditions endogènes, bien qu'ayant résisté à la colonisation, ont parfois reproduit des logiques d'assujettissement interne. L'analyse propose une déconstruction des égrégores aliénants, une restauration des fondements spirituels africains et une orientation vers une renaissance panafricaine. La Coafrwologie apparaît ainsi comme une alternative intellectuelle et pratique aux approches occidentales classiques, offrant une voie de libération et de transformation collective.

In an era of democratic backsliding, the pursuit of sustainable development that addresses social-ecological challenges can become a daunting task. Participatory and deliberative practices have flourished over the last few decades, addressing, to varying extents, policy domains that can be understood within the framework of social-ecological governance and related challenges. By understanding these practices through the concept of democratic innovations (DIs), we critically examine the historical connections between practices implemented across Europe with a focus on social-ecological challenges. This work reveals the emerging potential for democratising policy and decision-making, particularly in the areas of climate action and social justice. Despite the potential of DIs for citizen engagement with social-ecological challenges, the evidence gathered so far indicates that the reproduction of social exclusion within DIs is a significant issue, reflecting barriers rooted in socioeconomic cleavages and the myopia of political elites regarding long-term transformations. The capture and co-optation of DIs by powerful groups often reduces their potential to mere performative exercises that contribute little to creating inclusive settings. Therefore, while acknowledging the significant potential of DIs for social-ecological governance, we argue for the need to investigate the contribution of existing practices within extant democratic systems to realise their transformative potential fully.

A importância da Punch Magazine no estudo sobre o grande período do Imperialismo Britânico no século XIX vem sendo pouco abordada. Com suas caricaturas satíricas, o periódico, auxiliou na disseminação da ideologia imperialista, imprimindo uma cultura, e abrindo espaço para o que podemos chamar de "império informal". 1 O estudo deste trabalho esta centrado em analisar as caricaturas desta revista ilustrada entre os períodos de 1881 a 1902 dentro da temática da Guerra Anglo-Bôer. A Guerra se trata de um conflito entre "brancos" e disputa territorial na África Austral, entre o Império Britânico e os Bôeres (descendentes de holandeses e alemães) durante os períodos de 1880 a 1881 e de 1899 a 1902. A grande circulação da Punch trouxe impactos na política imperialista britânica e nas relações entre ingleses e bôeres ao longo do conflito, tendo sido um grande instrumento do império britânico. Palavras-chave: caricaturas; imperialismo; África; Guerra dos Bôeres.

A importância da Punch Magazine no estudo sobre o grande período do Imperialismo Britânico no século XIX vem sendo pouco abordada. Com suas caricaturas satíricas, o periódico, auxiliou na disseminação da ideologia imperialista, imprimindo uma cultura, e abrindo espaço para o que podemos chamar de "império informal". 1 O estudo deste trabalho esta centrado em analisar as caricaturas desta revista ilustrada entre os períodos de 1881 a 1902 dentro da temática da Guerra Anglo-Bôer. A Guerra se trata de um conflito entre "brancos" e disputa territorial na África Austral, entre o Império Britânico e os Bôeres (descendentes de holandeses e alemães) durante os períodos de 1880 a 1881 e de 1899 a 1902. A grande circulação da Punch trouxe impactos na política imperialista britânica e nas relações entre ingleses e bôeres ao longo do conflito, tendo sido um grande instrumento do império britânico. Palavras-chave: caricaturas; imperialismo; África; Guerra dos Bôeres.

The Day Liberty Died Some days do not merely pass into history-they haunt it. September 18, 2001, is one such day: a wound unhealed, a silence unbroken, a betrayal unforgotten. It is Eritrea's Day of Infamy-the day memory itself was criminalized.

This paper examines the Bible's treatment of slavery through historical, theological, and ethical lenses. Modern readers often stumble over passages like Colossians 3:22-"slaves obey your masters"-especially when they appear alongside commands to marital fidelity and sexual purity. While the latter are still affirmed, slavery is universally rejected, raising the question of how Christians should interpret these texts. By situating biblical slavery within its Ancient Near Eastern context, this study highlights the distinctiveness of Israel's laws, which-though far from abolitionist-introduced protections absent in surrounding cultures. The Old Testament's doctrines of the imago Dei, Israel's Exodus narrative, sanctuary for runaway slaves, and Jubilee release laws reveal both divine accommodation to fallen structures and seeds of reform. The New Testament carries this trajectory forward: household codes regulate rather than endorse slavery, Paul explicitly condemns enslavers (1 Tim 1:10), and letters like Philemon recast slaves as brothers in Christ. Theologically, the paper argues that these laws exemplify divine accommodation-regulation of broken realities without approval-similar to divorce concessions acknowledged by Jesus (Matt 19:8). This hermeneutic arc culminates in the gospel's ethic of universal neighbor-love and eschatological freedom in Christ (Gal 3:28; Rev 21:4). Reception history confirms this trajectory: while some misused Scripture to defend slavery, abolitionists from Wilberforce to Douglass rooted their campaigns in its liberating vision. The study concludes that Scripture reveals a divine pattern of accommodation, reform, and ultimate transformation-calling Christians to confront modern forms of bondage with the same gospel of freedom.

La ricerca epidemiologica moderna evidenzia una significativa sovrapposizione tra autismo e balbuzie che trascende la mera coincidenza statistica. La prevalenza della balbuzie nella popolazione generale si attesta intorno all'1% 1 4 7 , mentre nei bambini con autismo questa percentuale aumenta drammaticamente al 4 5% 1 4 10 , rappresentando un incremento di quattro-cinque volte superiore rispetto ai controlli neurotipici.

The aim of the present research was to examine the extent of public awareness created as a result of TV content promoting social change and to find out whether such content promotes dialogue amongst the viewer’s leading them to provide support for pro-social change. In this regard; the perception of the television drama serial “Udaari”was analyzed which aired on Hum TV from 10/04/16 to 25/09/16. The play can be considered to be a classic example of Entertainment-Education drama as defined by Singhal& Rogers (1999) 1 who suggested that such content is designed and implemented for the purpose of educating as well as entertaining so that there is an increase in the knowledge of the audience members about an issue.

From an African perspective, internet governance requires not only an understanding of the variability in access to and use of the internet across the continent, but also an understanding of the disparities between developed and developing countries’ abilities to effectively participate in global internet governance debates. Few developing countries participate in these debates, and even fewer are active in agenda-setting for global internet governance. This paper seeks to understand how these factors transect with the notion of multistakeholder participation as a form of governance for internet policymaking, which is often informed by assumptions from more mature markets and Western democracies. It does so by exploring the evolution of multistakeholder participation through mapping the main international and regional instruments of the internet governance ecosystem in Africa. It critically assesses the ability of current multistakeholder initiatives to provide Africans with a compa...

The paper aims at creating and guiding a discussion that will help protect vulnerable communities, states, and the international community from unprecedented levels of illegal use of force that results into breach of peace, and international protocols of sovereignty, non-use of force, human rights, life among others through bridging loopholes, codifying new set of rules to regulate the use of force at local levels, but also, to regulate Mercenary activities by individuals, companies/organizations and nations.

Political assassinations have become commonplace in the Kwa-Zulu Natal province, particularly during the era of democracy. In the scholarly review of such killings in the Kwa-Zulu Natal province, the borough of uMzimkhulu has attracted much attention from scholars, journalists, researchers, and violence monitors, especially during the 2016-2018 time frame. During this period, the uMzimkhulu town experienced a killing spree of politicians. Through a qualitative analysis of secondary data, this article intends to identify the underlying causes of political assassinations in the KZN town of uMzimkhulu from 2016 to 2018. Drawing insights from political realism, the article argues that squabbles for political power and stomach politics created a conflictual environment in the region, making the town a political killing field. Different scholars have investigated the issue of political assassinations in KZN, while also presenting the significant case of uMzimkhulu. There are scholarly publications on political assassinations as a provincial issue. However, less information focuses explicitly on the uMzimkhulu case study. The study presents three main findings. Firstly, political assassinations in uMzimkhulu were an intraparty phenomenon involving the African National Congress. Secondly, the uMzimkhulu Memorial Hall was central to the prevalence of political assassinations in the town. Lastly, the article finds that political

Citation: A Christian and African Ethic of Women’s Political Participation: Living as Risen Beings. Léocadie W. Lushombo. Lexington Books, 2023. 292 pp. $116. Hardcover. ISBN: 9781793647740. In Theological Studies. Volume 86. Issue 3 (2025): 521 – 522. Reviewed by SimonMary Asese Aihiokhai. University of Portland.

This paper delves into Athol Fugard's play, Sizwe Banzi is Dead, to examine the representation of apartheid and its far-reaching consequences on individuals and society. The paper illuminates how apartheid perpetuates systemic oppression, erases identities and undermines human dignity. The objective of the paper is to critically examine the play through the lens of Critical Race Theory and Intersectionality, highlighting the intersections of race, class and power. By employing Critical Race Theory, the paper examines the structural and institutional dimensions of apartheid, while Intersectionality unfurls the multiplicative effects of oppression on individuals. The paper reveals that Sizwe Banzi's experiences exemplify the dehumanising effects of apartheid, including forced assimilation, economic exploitation and psychological trauma. The intersections of race, class and gender compound the forms of oppression faced by Black South Africans, reinforcing the significance of Intersectionality in understanding these complex dynamics. The analysis demonstrates the significance of Critical Race Theory and Intersectionality in understanding the complex dynamics of oppression and resistance. Sizwe Banzi is Dead serves as a powerful critique of apartheid, exposing its destructive legacy.

A combination of economic growth and committed revenue-raising should give most governments in Central and Eastern Europe and the former Soviet Union considerable scope to devote increased resources to tackling poverty. We first briefly review the extent and nature of poverty across the transition countries. We then consider governments' fiscal positions and revenue raising tools, including the issue of whether a minority of countries now have levels of external debt servicing that are so high as to hamper social sector expenditures. We analyse whether the introduction of credible unemployment benefit schemes in the CIS would aid labour market reform and hence help solve the problem there of in-work poverty. The paper concludes by considering improvements in the targeting of social assistance and categorical benefits so as to reduce poverty, discussing options in different parts of the region in line with variations in institutional capacity and affordability.

South Africa's 2024-2025 G20 Presidency emerges as a critical juncture in Africa's quest for economic sovereignty and political cohesion amid global power realignments (Mamabolo, 2025; Mkandawire, 2011). This study interrogates the interplay between South Africa's global economic leadership and its domestic governance structures, focusing on governments of national unity as instruments of political stability and

Fractured Militancy: Precarious Resistance in South Africa After Racial Inclusion (Paret 2022) examines the "RCM triangle"-the interwoven relationships between race (R), capitalism (C), and movements (M)in post-apartheid South Africa. In responding to the four symposium contributions, I discuss the relationship between South Africa's democratization and the concept of passive revolution; the extent of hegemony under racial inclusion and other political formations; intersections of race and class; and strategies and possibilities for resistance.

Prelude

When I was asked to provide a brief description of this presentation on recent revelations about the continuation of abusive initiation practices and other traditions at Wilgenhof men's residence at the University of Stellenbosch, I promised that my presentation would engage with broader questions about the exclusionary nature of the institutional culture in men's residences and the broader Stellenbosch University campus, and the reasons for its continued existence and the fierceness with which the practices are being defended. But as often happens in the writing process, the piece-a first draft-went in a slightly different direction. It turns out I could have saved myself a lot of trouble by sending no more than four words to the organisers: Shame. Silence. Memory. Forgetting.

This paper explores the complex interplay between violence, misogyny, and the weaponization of rape in Nnedi Okorafor's "The Black Stain." It aims to analyze the strategic use of sexual violence as a means of reinforcing patriarchal dominance and social hierarchies, employing Michel Foucault's Theory of Discourse and Judith Butler's Concept of Gender Performativity. This approach examines how societal norms are perpetuated through discourse and gender performance, highlighting the instrumental role of language and actions in sustaining gender-based oppression. The narrative of "The Black Stain" illuminates the profound impact of these dynamics on the lives of Okeke women, whose bodies become sites of male control and punishment. Okorafor's portrayal of the violent enforcement of patriarchal norms underscores the broader societal implications of sexual violence as a tool of power. This paper draws primarily from a close reading of "The Black Stain" and integrates a range of secondary sources, including feminist theory, discourse analysis, and scholarly articles, to underscore the need for a critical reevaluation of the narratives that normalize violence against women. By linking Okorafor's fictional narrative with Bangladesh's real-world history, this paper features the urgent need to critically reassess the discourses that normalize violence against women, both in fictional Durfa and real historical contexts like the Liberation War of Bangladesh.

We invite scholarly contributions and personal essays for a Festschrift honouring Professor Madimabe Geoff Mapaya, a pioneering figure in African musicology whose transformative work has reshaped the landscape of music scholarship, pedagogy, and performance across the continent and beyond. This collection will celebrate his groundbreaking contributions to indigenising musicological thought, advancing indigenous knowledge systems, and building institutions rooted in African epistemologies.

(Language: Japanese) This study examines the interactions between the Tongzhi community̶a term referring to sexual minorities̶and religious groups in Taiwan, with a particular focus on their influence on the LGBT movement. In Taiwan, where same-sex marriage has been legalized, the primary opposition to LGBT activism emerged from conservative Christian groups, despite Christians comprising less than 5% of the population. Although this countermovement ultimately failed, the interfaith alliances it fostered̶ demonstrating collaboration across religious boundaries̶remain a significant aspect of the broader sociopolitical landscape. While certain religious groups actively oppose same-sex marriage, others adopt a neutral stance, and some even support Tongzhi individuals by providing spaces where both their sexual and religious identities are acknowledged and respected. Furthermore, based on interviews with minority group members, this research note underscores the importance of considering intersecting factors̶such as disability, age, and ethnicity̶when analyzing the relationship between religion and sexuality. By situating Taiwanʼs case within a broader regional framework, it advocates for further comparative research across Asia to examine how diverse religious contexts shape LGBT activism and the sociopolitical struggles of sexual minorities.

This article traces a decade of intense debate within South Africa’s emerging non-racial trade union movement, culminating in COSATU’s formation and ascendancy in the 1980s–early 1990s. It maps the evolving divide—often labelled “workerist” versus “nationalist”—over the unions’ political role amid repression, township uprisings, and rapid change. The analysis begins with the controversy over registering unions under the Wiehahn reforms: advocates framed registration as a tactical concession to be exploited; opponents feared state incorporation. It then examines arguments over affiliation to the United Democratic Front—workerists favouring organisational independence and a class-based mandate, nationalists prioritising broad, multi-class unity against apartheid. Relations with the ANC/SACP alliance are explored through the Workers’ Charter campaign (as a left critique and supplement to the Freedom Charter) and the “two-hat” dispute over union officials simultaneously holding party posts. Using the protracted negotiations that produced COSATU, the article shows how bloc politics, differing strategic horizons, and external pressures shaped leadership alignments and policy choices. While the unions forged close ties with the alliance—evidenced by joint actions such as the mass anti-VAT strike—they also asserted autonomy, warning against unilateralism in negotiations with the state. By the early 1990s a pragmatic modus vivendi had emerged: acceptance of alliance cooperation alongside defence of union independence and shop-floor democracy. The article argues that these tensions are partly generational—rooted in distinct political lineages—and that preserving pluralism within labour has been central to the unions’ development into South Africa’s most powerful organised force.

This review examines Sharad Chari’s Apartheid Remains, a masterful study of Durban’s long twentieth century that traces how racial-spatial fixes shaped both state biopolitics and popular struggles. Drawing on two decades of archival and ethnographic research, Chari layers the histories of Merebank and Wentworth, showing how imperial, colonial, and apartheid regimes sought to discipline urban life yet continually produced their own undoing. Rather than offering a linear narrative, the book develops a palimpsestic analysis, highlighting how earlier formations “haunt” subsequent conjunctures. Central to the text is a relational comparative approach that resists reifying racial and spatial difference, instead situating township politics within complex geographies of dispossession, survival, and revolt. The review highlights Chari’s attention to activist-intellectuals and the dialectics of biopolitical struggle, while raising questions about the conceptual elasticity of “biopolitics.” Ultimately, Apartheid Remains offers a generative account of Durban’s racial capitalist order and the insurgent politics to which it gave rise.

When, in 1897, W.E.B. Du Bois was conducting research-eventually published as The Philadelphia Negro-on the Black condition in the emerging "ghetto," he witnessed firsthand a proliferation of cultural, social, sexual, and political practices facing condemnation, which Du Bois himself sometimes seconded, as criminal or deviant. The verdict was racially predetermined instead of registering violations, even implicit, of legal or societal norms. Black existence was indeed intellectually and sensuously efflorescent, he concluded. Yet, impeded by ever-present dereliction and the non-negotiable gratuitousness of antiblack violence, "life is elsewhere. " Saidiya Hartman quotes Du Bois 1 to signal the disorientation, recurring in his autobiographical work from that period, felt by the sympathetic and progressively engaged sociological observer in the encounter with Black women's insouciance, impoliteness, and refusal of the immediate, suffocating constraints of respectability and work ethic. Radical Black thought has dwelled in that chasm, seeking, rather than resolution, seemingly paradoxical ways of expressing it-like "the social life of social death" 2thereby trying to amplify an underlying critical potential in overt defiance of activist political discourse. In South Africa, Black radical thought-for instance Athinangamso Nkopo's engagement with the antiblackness of liberation politics, Unathi Slasha's counter-narratives of African spirituality, or Tumi Mogorosi's sounds of rebellion against rainbow-national selfhood-has also tended to pry open the social and mental lacerations of a "fatal way of being alive, " 3 rather than assuming that position as a cry for mundane salvation. Sharad Chari's Apartheid Remains also aims at a liberatory "elsewhere" from the grotesquely disfigured modalities in which South African regimes of white supremacy imagined formatting Black life as something governable. The book invokes "political blackness" as its lodestar, a light pointing at redemptive horizons that, in the argument's chronological structure as well as its impressively vast and uniquely detailed archival and ethnographic work, acquire distinctively eventful and

The Revised African Maritime Transport Charter (RAMTC) which was adopted by the African union in 2010, seeks to harmonize maritime policies Across the continent, thus promoting indigenous African shipping and regional integration. Ghana’s shipping (Cabotage) Regulations, 2021 (LI 2438) which’s sole purpose is to reserve domestic maritime trade for indigenous people, aligns with the charter’s objective but shall require adaptations to incorporate trans-African cabotage provisions. The paper examines the Charters effect on Ghana’s regime, including strengthened national protections, opportunities for regional trade and challenges such as policy harmonisation and competition.
Following Uganda’s ratification as the 15th member state in July, the revised charter has come into force and Ghana has signed the charter but is yet to ratify it, thus, putting it in a position to benefit from enhanced cooperation in the region. The thesis proposes that the charter could bolster Ghana’s cabotage framework while fostering broader economic integration. However there multiple facts to consider, including policy direction.

The publication starts with the historical explorations of the Ukrainian community in South Africa and then looks into migration from Ukraine to South Africa, describes a typical portrait of a Ukrainian migrant in South Africa, the causes and features of the migration process, challenges and problems of integration of Ukrainian migrants in South Africa, identity preservation and transformation, the process of forming Ukrainian communities, maintaining a network between migrants and Ukraine, as well as a vision of their future and prospects of the community. Particular attention is paid to the problems and needs of Ukrainian migrants in South Africa, on the basis of which proposals and recommendations were formulated for various actors in the public and private sectors.

As the world was introduced to “post-truth”, the impacts of misinformation and disinformation in politics became evident. Investigations into the Brexit referendum and the election of Donald Trump revealed how social media – used for manipulation and influence – has reshaped how people engage with one another. South Africa wasn’t immune, with the notorious Twitter (now X) “Gupta Bot” army and Bell Pottinger’s PR campaign working to legitimise large-scale corruption. Although the players and tactics behind these operations have changed, the influence of misinformation continues to shape South Africa’s political landscape. This book, through case studies from 2019–2020, explores these shifts, their impact, and how the country can address the ongoing threat.

THE BONA FIDE CHARACTER OF ANC LEADER:
The Dual Role of ANC Leadership: Navigating Grassroots Activism and Institutional Accountability
By Comrade Matthews Mooketsane Bantsijang

Introduction

The African National Congress (ANC) has long been a pivotal force in South African politics, embodying the nation's aspirations for equality, justice, and democratic governance. The role of an ANC leader is uniquely positioned at the intersection of grassroots activism and institutional accountability, making it both a powerful and precarious undertaking. This paper explores the core responsibilities of ANC leaders, the challenges they face, and the ongoing renewal agenda aimed at restoring integrity and trust within the party and its relationship with the broader society.

“Through the Eye of a Needle” – Summary

Purpose:
ANC’s seminal policy document published in 2001 by the African National Congress (ANC), Through the Eye of a Needle sets out ethical and political criteria for selecting leaders who embody the movement’s revolutionary values and commitment to transformation.
Core Themes:
• Leadership as Service: Leadership is not a reward or entitlement, but a responsibility rooted in serving the people and advancing the struggle for justice.
• Moral Integrity: Leaders must demonstrate revolutionary morality, discipline, and a track record of community engagement.
• Democratic Accountability: Electoral processes within the ANC must reflect internal democracy, not personal ambition, factionalism, or financial influence.
• Cadre Development: The document emphasizes building a leadership collective that reflects the ANC’s historic mission and is capable of guiding transformation.
• Challenges Identified: It warns against the rise of corrupt practices, careerism, and the misuse of internal democracy for self-enrichment or power retention.
Symbolism:
The title evokes the biblical metaphor—“It is easier for a camel to go through the eye of a needle than for a rich man to enter the kingdom of God”—to stress that leadership in a liberation movement must be difficult, demanding, and morally rigorous.

If you'd like, I can help unpack how this document could inform leadership renewal within the Methodist Church or broader African institutions. It’s a powerful lens for prophetic critique and institutional transformation.
The Pillars of ANC Leadership

Ethical Leadership: The Moral Compass

At the heart of ANC leadership lies the expectation of ethical leadership. Leaders are called to embody the values of the ANC—integrity, service, and justice. This moral compass is essential not only for personal conduct but also for fostering a culture of accountability within the party. Ethical leadership serves as a foundation for trust, which is crucial for mobilizing support and ensuring that the party remains aligned with the aspirations of the people it represents.

Community Engagement: Bridging the Divide

ANC leaders serve as vital conduits between the party and the communities they represent. Their role in community engagement is paramount, as they must ensure that local concerns inform national priorities. By actively listening to the voices of constituents, leaders can advocate for policies that resonate with the lived experiences of the people, thereby reinforcing the party's relevance and commitment to social justice.

Policy Literacy: The Knowledge Imperative

In an era marked by complex socio-economic challenges, ANC leaders must possess a deep understanding of party policies, particularly in critical areas such as land reform, economic transformation, and social justice. Policy literacy enables leaders to communicate effectively with constituents, ensuring that party initiatives are understood and supported. This knowledge is crucial for fostering informed political discourse and enabling citizens to participate meaningfully in the democratic process.

Mobilisation and Organising: The Engine of Growth

A key responsibility of ANC leaders is to drive membership growth, political education, and community action. Mobilisation and organising efforts are crucial for sustaining the party's grassroots base and ensuring that it remains responsive to the needs of the populace. Leaders must inspire and empower members to take an active role in political processes, fostering a sense of ownership and agency within the party.

Conflict Resolution: Fostering Unity

Internal disputes and factionalism pose significant challenges to the cohesion of the ANC. Leaders must navigate these conflicts skilfully, fostering unity within the branch while addressing the concerns of various factions. Effective conflict resolution is essential for maintaining party integrity and ensuring that the ANC remains focused on its broader mission of social justice and equality.


Challenges to Character and Credibility

Factionalism: A House Divided

Factionalism within the ANC presents a formidable challenge to leadership. Loyalty to internal groupings often undermines broader party unity and mission, leading to fragmentation and disillusionment among members. This internal strife can detract from the party's ability to effectively address the needs of the communities it serves.

Gatekeeping: The Exclusion Dilemma

The control over membership and access to opportunities can breed exclusion and resentment within the ANC. Gatekeeping practices can alienate potential supporters and undermine the party's commitment to inclusivity and democratic participation. Leaders must be vigilant in ensuring that all voices are heard and that opportunities for engagement are accessible to all members.

Corruption and Patronage: Erosion of Trust

Corruption and patronage within the ANC pose significant threats to the party's credibility and democratic culture. The misuse of resources or influence erodes public trust and undermines the moral authority of the party. Leaders must actively combat these practices, reaffirming their commitment to ethical governance and accountability.




The ANC’s Renewal Agenda: A Path Forward

In response to the challenges it faces, the ANC has embarked on a renewal agenda, particularly in the wake of the Nasrec conference and the establishment of the Integrity Commission. This agenda aims to:
1. Reaffirm Ethical Standards: By establishing clear ethical guidelines for leadership, the ANC seeks to restore public confidence in its leaders and their commitment to the party's values.

2. Democratise Branch Processes: Efforts to democratize candidate selection and enhance member participation are essential for fostering a more inclusive and representative party structure.

3. Strengthen Accountability Mechanisms: Implementing lifestyle audits and disciplinary procedures will enhance transparency and accountability within the party, ensuring that leaders are held to the highest ethical standards.

4. Rebuild Trust: The ANC must work diligently to rebuild trust between the party and society, particularly among youth and marginalised communities. Engaging these groups in meaningful dialogue and action is crucial for revitalising the party's relevance and legitimacy.

Conclusion

The role of an ANC leader is both powerful and precarious, situated at the crossroads of grassroots activism and institutional accountability. By embodying ethical leadership, engaging with communities, and navigating the challenges of factionalism and corruption as reflecting directly or indirectly on policy document “Through the eye of the needle”, ANC leaders can fulfil their responsibilities and contribute to the party's renewal agenda. The future of the ANC hinges on its ability to restore trust and integrity, ensuring that it remains a beacon of hope and progress for all South Africans.

References

1. African National Congress. (2017). ANC 54th National Conference Resolutions.
2. Baskin, J. (2018). The ANC and the Politics of Renewal: A Historical Perspective. African Studies Review, 61(2), 1-20.
3. Chikane, M. (2019). The ANC's Struggle for Renewal: A Personal Reflection. Johannesburg: Jacana Media.
4. Mbeki, T. (2017). The African Renaissance: New Pathways for the ANC. Cape Town: Tafelberg.
5. Ndlovu, S. (2020). Factionalism and the Future of the ANC: Challenges and Opportunities. South African Journal of Political Studies, 47(3), 345-360.
6. Zuma, J. (2018). Leadership in the ANC: Reflections on Ethical Governance. Pretoria: Human Sciences Research Council.



🔧 Technocrat with Purpose: A Multifaceted Leadership Profile of Matthews Bantsijang
This is a rich and compelling portrait of Matthews Mooketsane Bantsijang—a figure whose technocratic identity is not just a label, but a lived synthesis of engineering precision, policy acumen, and ethical leadership. Let’s distil and elevate the key dimensions of his profile into a structured framework that reflects both his legacy and his ongoing relevance:
🏛️ Government Leadership & Policy Stewardship
• Senior Manager, DMRE (Pretoria): Over two decades shaping electricity policy, regulation, and strategic planning.
• Former Chief Director & Director: Spearheaded national frameworks for energy governance, including Eskom reform and IPP integration.
• EXPERT - Policy Architect: Known for bridging technical feasibility with socio-political imperatives—especially in the context of South Africa’s just energy transition.
🏢 Entrepreneurial Vision
• MMB Holdings & MMB Workshops: As Group Managing Director, Bantsijang leads enterprises in project management, construction, & industrial services—grounded in community upliftment and economic empowerment.
• Business Ethics Advocate: His writings & leadership style reflect a commitment to integrity, transparency, inclusive & growth.
⚡ Energy & Mining Expertise
• Eskom Commentary: Advocates for restructuring, cost-reflective tariffs, and diversification through IPPs.
• Beneficiation Champion: Promotes local mineral processing to retain value, create jobs, and empower commu...