The Social Commentator

President Ramaphosa’s Address: Yet Another Missed Opportunity For Decisive And Ethical Non-Partisan Leadership

Jul 14

In a recent address, President Cyril Ramaphosa faced backlash for his measured response to serious allegations against Minister Senzo Mchunu and others in the ANC. Critics note that his announcement of a Commission of Inquiry, despite seeming necessary, likely delays… more ›
The Tyranny of Party Loyalty: How South African Politics is Held Hostage

Jul 10

The article discusses a detrimental trend in South African democracy characterized by excessive political party loyalty and intra-party factionalism. Author Nco Dube argues that this blind allegiance undermines independent thought, accountability, and the public interest, as party members prioritize loyalty… more ›
How the ANC Can Turn Lt-Gen Mkhwanazi’s Explosive Allegations into a Turning Point for South African Democracy

Jul 7

South Africa is currently facing a critical crisis following allegations by KwaZulu-Natal Provincial Police Commissioner Lt-Gen Nhlanhla Mkhwanazi, who claims a politically motivated campaign aims to undermine the effective Political Killings Task Team. His briefing revealed attempts to disband the… more ›
South Africa’s Betrayal of Transformation: How Big Business and ANC Elites Colluded to Undermine Empowerment

Jul 2

By Nco Dube | 02 July 2025 South Africa’s post-apartheid journey has been marked by a bold constitutional promise: to dismantle the economic structures of racial privilege and build a society where the black majority can share in the country’s… more ›
Presidential Prerogative To Hire And Fire Under Scrutiny Yet Again

Jun 26

By Nco Dube | 26 June 2025 The recent decision by President Cyril Ramaphosa to relieve DA Deputy Minister Andrew Whitfield of his duties has sparked a flurry of speculation and debate in South African political circles. This move, while… more ›
Reclaiming the True Meaning of South Africa’s Public Holidays

Jun 23

South Africa’s public holidays reflect the nation’s complex history and reconciliation efforts since 1994. While many holidays have been renamed to foster unity, this has, in some instances, diluted their original significance tied to specific communities’ struggles. The article argues… more ›
The Weaponisation of Intelligence in South African Politics

Jun 20

By Nco Dube | 20 June 2025 The recent revelation by former MKP Secretary General Floyd Shivambu, who claims he was sacked on the basis of a fake intelligence report, is neither new nor surprising in the context of South… more ›
Remembering 16 June 1976: The Soweto Uprising and Its Enduring Legacy for South Africa’s Youth

Jun 14

By Nco Dube | 13 June 2025 On 16 June 1976, the streets of Soweto erupted in a powerful, defiant roar that reverberated far beyond the dusty township roads. What began as a student protest against the imposition of Afrikaans… more ›
Unpacking the Truth Behind South Africa’s Unemployment Numbers

Jun 13

By Nco Dube | 12 June 2025 South Africa’s unemployment rate is a lightning rod for political debate, economic anxiety, and public frustration. In the wake of Capitec CEO Gerrie Fourie’s claim that the “real” unemployment rate is closer to… more ›
Is Hereditary Leadership Still Relevant in Modern South Africa? Tradition, Law, and the Shadow of Political Interference

Jun 3

The relevance of hereditary leadership in South Africa’s democracy is debated, particularly amid ongoing succession disputes among traditional kingdoms. Key issues arise from the Traditional and Khoi-San Leadership Act (TKLA), criticized for its lack of community engagement and alleged entrenchment… more ›