South Africa has failed its Black majority. Nelson Mandela's political heirs may pay the price

South Africa’s ruling African National Congress (ANC) risks losing its parliamentary majority for the first time in 30 years, as the party faces growing discontent. The country is grappling with issues such as corruption, high unemployment, power cuts, and weak economic growth. Living standards have declined, with gross domestic product per capita falling and income inequality worsening. The government’s flagship policy for economic inclusion and racial equality, Broad-Based Black Economic Empowerment (BEE), has been criticized for failing to achieve its goals. BEE deals have been marred by corruption, leading to concerns about maladministration. Critics argue that the policy has enriched a few connected individuals while excluding the majority. South Africa’s economy has suffered under the ANC’s governance, with crumbling infrastructure and a slowing growth rate. However, there is a joint effort between the government and the business sector to address the country’s challenges. The ANC’s potential loss of power could incentivize improved government performance.