South Africa’s future is in the hands of a divided ANC
The party is debating whether to embrace populism or pragmatism
Meetings of the African National Congress (ANC) are a mix of materialism and narcissism. The fancy SUVs parked outside any gathering hint at the spoils of office enjoyed by South Africa’s ruling party. Inside there will be a selfindulgent atmosphere: regalia and songs that hark back to the anti-apartheid struggle; discussion about the meaning of transformation, liberation, revolution and renewal. There are few things that the ANC enjoys more than talking about the ANC. There is enough navel-gazing to require an army of chiropractors.
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This article appeared in the Middle East & Africa section of the print edition under the headline “Long talk to freedom”
Middle East & Africa June 8th 2024
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From the June 8th 2024 edition
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