Abstract
The aim of this study is to discuss the nature of coalition government and its role in strengthening the norms of democracy in South Africa. Over the past two decades, South Africa has continued to focus on the progressive development of the country's political institutions under the ethos of the democratic principle of coalition government. This chapter also discusses the various South African governments' roles in the establishment of democratization in the country. The research method used in this study is the qualitative approach to search for actual research output. The empirical method would also involve discussing research gaps on the nature and characteristics of coalition government for better governance. Moreover, this study will answer the following research questions: How is the coalition government in South Africa paving the way for the healthiest democracy? There is the second question: Why are the people of South Africa electing a coalition government in the country? This study also uses the third wave of democratization theory of Samuel P. Huntington, which contributed to the democratic transition and the establishment of democratic governments in the late 1980s in developing countries, namely in Africa, Latin America, and Central and Eastern Europe. Apart from Samuel P. Huntington's idea on democratization, this study also utilises other modern democratic theories to discuss South Africa's democratization process under the coalition government. Finally, the chapter outlines how political alliances are conceptualized and operationalized for the democratization of South Africa.
TopIntroduction
The most significant event was the end of apartheid and the establishment of a democratic government in 1994. This marked the beginning of a new era characterized by non-racialism, democracy, and equality under the leadership of the African National Congress (ANC) and its leader, Nelson Mandela. South Africa has held several democratic elections since 1994, with the ANC winning the majority of votes in each election. The country’s political landscape has seen the emergence of opposition parties such as the Democratic Alliance (DA) and the Economic Freedom Fighters (EFF), contributing to a more pluralistic political environment. Despite the progress made since 1994, South Africa continues to face significant challenges, including poverty, inequality, unemployment, and crime. The government has implemented various social welfare programs and economic policies aimed at addressing these issues, but progress has been uneven. The several past governments of South Africa had made tremendous efforts to address historical injustices and inequalities have included initiatives such as Black Economic Empowerment (BEE) and affirmative action policies aimed at promoting the participation of previously disadvantaged groups in the economy and society.
Land ownership remains a contentious issue in South Africa, with calls for land redistribution to address historical injustices. The government has initiated land reform programs, including land restitution and redistribution, although progress has been slow and uneven. South Africa has played an active role in regional and international affairs, advocating for human rights, democracy, and development. It has also been involved in peacekeeping efforts on the African continent and has sought to strengthen ties with other emerging economies through platforms such as BRICS (Brazil, Russia, India, China, South Africa). Overall, South Africa’s post-1994 journey has been characterized by both progress and challenges as the country continues to grapple with the legacy of apartheid while striving to build a more inclusive, equitable, and prosperous society through enhancement of sustainable democratic development in the country. As South Africa transitioned to democracy, traditional authorities saw a decline in their popularity, particularly among younger generations and those advocating for greater democratic accountability and participation. However, it's important to note that traditional leadership still held significance for many rural communities, particularly in matters of culture, identity, and local governance.
This study examines various factors that influence the formation and functioning of coalitions in South Africa. This includes analyzing trends in political party electoral performance, ideological differences among prospective coalition partners, policy preferences, and the personalities and qualities of political leaders. Understanding these factors helps identify areas of potential cooperation, compromise, consensus, and divergence among coalition partners, which are critical for the success and sustainability of coalition governments. The feasibility, efficiency, effectiveness, and sustainability of coalition governments in South Africa depend on several factors, including the degree of ideological alignment among coalition partners, the strength of leadership within the coalition, the ability to forge consensus on key policy issues, and the capacity to manage intra-coalition conflicts and disagreements (Dlakavu, 2022; Mnwana, 2015). By examining these factors, analysts can assess the prospects for successful coalition governance and identify potential challenges and areas for improvement.
Key Terms in this Chapter
Future Prospects of South African Democracy: In recent years, the ANC has grappled with internal divisions, allegations of corruption, and declining public trust. Infighting within the party, as well as concerns about mismanagement and state capture, have raised questions about its ability to effectively govern and deliver on its promises. The ANC has pursued a range of economic policies aimed at promoting growth, job creation, and social welfare. These policies include Black Economic Empowerment (BEE) initiatives to redress economic imbalances inherited from apartheid, as well as social welfare programs targeting poverty and inequality. Despite facing challenges, the ANC remains a dominant force in South African politics, with significant support among voters, particularly in rural and historically marginalized communities. Its ability to address internal divisions, combat corruption, and deliver on its promises will be key factors in shaping its future trajectory. By and large, the ANC's legacy is deeply intertwined with South Africa’s history and its ongoing journey towards building a more inclusive, democratic, and prosperous society.
ANC in South Africa: The African National Congress (ANC) is a prominent political party in South Africa with a rich history deeply intertwined with the country's struggle against apartheid and its transition to democracy. Throughout the apartheid era, the ANC, alongside other liberation movements like the Pan Africanist Congress (PAC) and the South African Communist Party (SACP), fought against racial segregation, discrimination, and the brutal policies of the apartheid government.
Coalition Governments: Coalition governments play a significant role in many democracies worldwide, offering a means to represent diverse interests and promote stability. However, they also require effective communication, compromise, and transparency to address the challenges associated with shared governance and maintain accountability to the electorate.
Transition to Democracy in South Africa: The ANC played a pivotal role in negotiating an end to apartheid and facilitating South Africa’s transition to democracy in the early 1990s. Mandela, who became the country's first black president in 1994, led the ANC during this historic period of change.
Post-Apartheid Governance in South Africa: Since the end of apartheid, the ANC has been the ruling party in South Africa, winning successive elections and holding power at the national level. It has implemented various policies aimed at redressing the legacies of apartheid, promoting social justice, and addressing economic inequality. However, the party has faced criticism for issues such as corruption, service delivery failures, and internal divisions.
Sustainable Democracy: Sustainable democracy seeks to create a resilient and inclusive political system that can effectively address contemporary challenges while safeguarding the rights and interests of future generations. It requires continuous efforts from governments, civil society, and citizens to uphold democratic values and institutions for the well-being of society as a whole.