This approach enabled the development of a power-sharing model during the 1990–1996 transition period. Roelf argued that this model was prematurely abandoned. The National Party’s withdrawal from the Government of National Unity in 1996 is seen as a critical mistake, which ultimately contributed to the prolonged single-party dominance of the ANC. Drawing on personal experience within the former apartheid government, Roelf warned that extended rule by any one party breeds complacency, weakens accountability, and creates fertile ground for corruption.

While the first 15 years of democracy saw strong economic growth and institutional stability, this momentum was later undermined by weakened opposition, state capture, and erosion of state capacity. The consequences include low growth, high unemployment, rising poverty, and growing pressure on public services, exacerbated by undocumented migration.

The current Government of National Unity is viewed as a missed opportunity. While it offered the potential for renewal, its effectiveness is undermined by a lack of genuine trust and an apparent failure by some parties to accept the reality of shared power. Roelf emphasised the need for new, younger leadership, arguing that long tenures in positions of authority stifle renewal and responsiveness. Business and civil society are urged to play a more active role in encouraging political reform and leadership development, as they did during the late apartheid period.

Looking ahead, Roelf advocated strongly for a national dialogue to reset South Africa’s shared vision. This dialogue should lead to a binding social contract involving government, business, labour, and civil society, with clear goals, implementation plans, and transparent monitoring. Without such a reset, the risk of social unrest is real and growing. He concluded by affirming that South Africa’s negotiated transition remains a global benchmark, offering valuable lessons to deeply polarised societies around the world.

Ubuntu Members can access the recording from the event! Find out more…

This approach enabled the development of a power-sharing model during the 1990–1996 transition period. Roelf argued that this model was prematurely abandoned. The National Party’s withdrawal from the Government of National Unity in 1996 is seen as a critical mistake, which ultimately contributed to the prolonged single-party dominance of the ANC. Drawing on personal experience within the former apartheid government, Roelf warned that extended rule by any one party breeds complacency, weakens accountability, and creates fertile ground for corruption.

While the first 15 years of democracy saw strong economic growth and institutional stability, this momentum was later undermined by weakened opposition, state capture, and erosion of state capacity. The consequences include low growth, high unemployment, rising poverty, and growing pressure on public services, exacerbated by undocumented migration.

The current Government of National Unity is viewed as a missed opportunity. While it offered the potential for renewal, its effectiveness is undermined by a lack of genuine trust and an apparent failure by some parties to accept the reality of shared power. Roelf emphasised the need for new, younger leadership, arguing that long tenures in positions of authority stifle renewal and responsiveness. Business and civil society are urged to play a more active role in encouraging political reform and leadership development, as they did during the late apartheid period.

Looking ahead, Roelf advocated strongly for a national dialogue to reset South Africa’s shared vision. This dialogue should lead to a binding social contract involving government, business, labour, and civil society, with clear goals, implementation plans, and transparent monitoring. Without such a reset, the risk of social unrest is real and growing. He concluded by affirming that South Africa’s negotiated transition remains a global benchmark, offering valuable lessons to deeply polarised societies around the world.

Ubuntu Members can access the recording from the event! Find out more…