Ivor Chipkin, our Executive Director and Co-Founder of the New South Institute (NSI), has penned a compelling opinion piece titled “South Africa’s Faustian Bet on Everything from Electricity to Israel.” This article, published on May 28, 2024, in The Jewish Independent, delves into the intricate dynamics shaping South Africa’s current political landscape, just as the nation heads to the polls.

In his article, Chipkin explores the anticipated decline of the African National Congress (ANC), the ruling party since 1994, in the upcoming elections. Polls suggest that the ANC’s vote share may fall below 50%, indicating a significant shift in South African politics. He discusses the factors contributing to this decline, including voter turnout trends and the rise of opposition parties such as the Democratic Alliance and the newly formed MK party.

Chipkin provides a critical analysis of the ANC’s internal challenges, highlighting the persistent influence of figures implicated in corruption during the Jacob Zuma era and the complex power dynamics within the party. He also examines the broader implications of these issues for South Africa’s economic and institutional reforms, particularly in the context of electricity and public service sectors.

Furthermore, Chipkin addresses South Africa’s international stance, notably its alignment with Hamas, under the direction of the Department of International Relations and Cooperation (DIRCO). He contemplates the potential consequences of the ANC’s evolving political strategy for both domestic governance and international relations.

For a comprehensive understanding of these pivotal issues, we invite you to read Ivor Chipkin’s full article. Access the complete analysis here.

Stay informed with NSI’s latest insights and research by subscribing to our newsletter on our website.