Netherlands Institute for Multiparty Democracy

The election of Jacob Zuma as President of the ruling African Congress Party (ANC) in December 2007 led to a change of leadership positions throughout the party and in parliament. It also led to the resignation of President Thabo Mbeki on request of the National Executive Committee of ANC, after a judge, who had dismissed charges of corruption against Mr Zuma, suggested that the government had interfered in the case. Kgalema Motlanthe, an ally of Jacob Zuma, was installed as interim President of South Africa.

Social conflicts

Economically, the government performed well, and delivered on its promises in the areas of housing and basic services such as electricity, water and sanitation. However major social problems remain: economic inequality has not decreased, unemployment figures are still high and neither HIV/AIDS nor crime is under control. The outbreak of xenophobic violence in several urban areas in the middle of the year 2008 raised questions about the government's performance on social service delivery, and the nature of discrimination and exclusion in South African society.

Political tensions

Democratic rules and regulations are well established and institutionalized. However the dominance of the ruling party ANC in parliament (with 279 out of 400 seats) and the blurred lines between party and government fuels tensions within the political system. There is limited room for opposition.