Mail & Guardian reporter Sipho Seepe, one of South Africa’s leading political commentators and academics, has joined the Mail & Guardian as a columnist and associate editor.
A physicist by training, Seepe, who is principal of Vista University’s campus at Sebokeng, has emerged in recent years as one of the sharpest analysts on South African developments.
He holds five degrees, among them an MSc from the University of the Witwatersrand, an MEd from Harvard University and a PhD from the University of the North West.
Seepe will be writing a fortnightly political column, No Blows Barred, which will alternate with Stephen Friedman’s Worm’s Eye View. He will also contribute additional analysis on major developments. He has written extensively on matters of public interest, from politics, culture, affirmative action issues and education to matters relating to transformation of society and institutions.
Welcoming Seepe to the paper, M&G editor Howard Barrell said: “Sipho’s is the most significant voice to emerge in South African political commentary in recent years. Bright, rigorous, independent and courageous, he does not suffer from the debilitating shortcoming that affects so many other commentators in our media, namely the need to be liked by the powers that be.
“His earlier contributions to this and other South African newspapers have caused politicians and government leaders to take note.
“Sipho is a huge catch for us. He will bring a new depth and edge to our political coverage. We are very excited about his presence.”