OPINIONS
A Bad Week for the ANC and the Republicans
Both Cyril Ramaphosa and Donald Trump saw their parties suffer major electoral defeats last week, but the US midterm results are unlikely to change Washington’s policy towards South Africa.
11.11.2026 |
Tony Leon
South Africa has a Historic Opportunity to put its Divided Past Behind it
The 2026 local government elections have created an extraordinary opportunity for the ANC and DA to build a governing alliance that could reshape South Africa’s political future, restore economic growth, and finally move the country beyond the divisions of its past.
11.11.2026 |
The Editorial Board
Investors Welcome South Africa’s Election Results as Bond Yields Remain Low
Investors welcome South Africa’s 2026 local government election results as bond yields remain low following a sharp decline driven by the US midterm elections. But The Common Sense warns that markets may be underpricing the political risks emerging from coalition negotiations that could threaten the GNU.
10.11.2026 |
Bheki Mahlobo
The Success of the Canola Industry Offers Inspiration for Other Crop Expansion and Inclusion in South African Agriculture
South Africa’s canola industry is set for a record harvest after decades of remarkable growth. Wandile Sihlobo explains how its success could be replicated across other crops and regions to expand agricultural production and create new opportunities.
10.11.2026 |
Wandile Sihlobo
Africa Keeps Being Promised Climate Money. Where is it?
As world leaders gather for COP31, questions remain over how much of Africa’s promised climate finance has arrived, where it has gone, and who will repay it.
8.11.2026 |
Paula Slier
Dispatch from Washington
Richard Tren writes on the view from Washington on the latest global developments.
8.11.2026 |
Richard Tren
The Most Consequential Week of 2026
David Ansara examines a pivotal week for South Africa and the world.
7.11.2026 |
David Ansara
Herman Mashaba: The Unlikely Prophet of His Own Political Ruin
Dr Ivor Blumenthal warns that Herman Mashaba’s hostility towards the DA threatens ActionSA’s future and the prospects of stable coalition government in Gauteng’s metros.
7.11.2026 |
Ivor Blumenthal
The Case of Tundu Lissu, Tanzania’s Democratic Descent, an Unbelievable President, and America’s Message
As Tanzanian opposition leader Tundu Lissu awaits a verdict on treason charges, Edwin Sifuna, Ray Hartley, and Greg Mills warn that Africa’s democratic retreat is accelerating, while America’s withdrawal from the continent leaves African democrats increasingly responsible for defending political freedom and the rule of law.
6.11.2026 |
Greg Mills, Ray Hartley and Edwin Sifuna
The Election is Over, What Should the ANC and DA do Now?
Yesterday, South Africans voted in the local government elections. Some political parties emerged stronger, others weaker. Attempts at coalitions will now be negotiated, mayors appointed, and commentators will debate what the results mean for the country. Yet the most important piece of meaning to draw from yesterday will continue not to be found in the election results but in the world outside of them, and the most serious mistake to avoid will be seeking to change that by stampeding the DA and ANC into a series of shotgun marriages.
5.11.2026 |
The Editorial Board
