William Gumede
latest news & developments
Political analysts and the dearth of sound public discourse
Whenever a major political development occurs, audiences are often presented with a familiar cast of commentators. A relatively small group of commentators often appears across…
Budget that did not happen becomes a crisis that should never happen
Analysts say the budget became a cliffhanger because it was written as though the ANC still governed on its own
South Africa and Namibia: Why liberation movements fail when they come to power
The ruling elites have demonstrated that they are less interested in democracy than they are in pursuing self interests and the retention of power
SOE holding company: Mission-led or mission impossible?
Reforming governance has proved to be a Sisyphean task. If done right, a new state holding company could be the final push
Can coalitions stabilise the economy?
With the right amount of planning, political coalitions can work – and even create the environment for better economic solutions
ANC resolution may stall Gordhan’s SOE plan
The ruling party’s economic transformation head Mmamokolo Kubayi said the resolution for state entities to be moved to line ministries remained intact
MEC’s iron fist flattens governance at Gauteng economic agencies
Tasneem Motara has dissolved two boards in as many months, leaving the Gauteng Growth and Development Agency and the Gauteng Gambling Board virtually rudderless
What is hamstringing SA’s industrial growth?
Implementing the country’s many masterplans demands capacity and focus from a department that has been pulled in different directions
University funding crisis: Economy crumbling under weighty student debt
Student debt is growing quickly and, if something doesn’t change, it could jeopardise the country’s already struggling economy
SONA2022: What comes first Mr President? The country, or the ANC?
Rosa Luxemburg Stiftung Southern Africa’s Rebone Tau and professor William Gumede talk to M&G about SONA 2022
Khusela Diko, now suspended, earned a cushy salary during her ‘special leave’
The presidency confirms spokesperson Khusela Diko has been suspended; meanwhile, her full salary was paid while she was on ‘special leave’
South Africa’s military is not suited for the fight against Covid-19. Here’s why
SANDF has been trained and equipped for precisely the opposite of what President Cyril Ramaphosa has asked of it – to save lives. Its purpose is to defend the country and its…
Rise in ANC members in KZN a major boost for Zuma
While an increase in members in KZN may boost Zuma’s hopes for a second term, it may also make governing the party and the country very difficult.
Shadow of Marikana hangs over Cosatu congress
Analysts are predicting that events at Lonmin’s mine in Marikana will heavily influence next week’s Cosatu national congress.
Writers: Penned in or breaking out?
This year has particular significance for Africa’s connection with the written word. Percy Zvomuya reports.