South Africa Confronts Israel and Its Own Democracy

Matter of Opinion

In a special intercontinental episode, Lydia Polgreen reports from South Africa as the country challenges Israel for its attack on Rafah in southern Gaza.

The post-apartheid nation has emerged as a critical leader and a moral voice in some (but not all) superpower struggles. Yet back at home, South Africa’s 30 years of multiracial democracy is undergoing major political upheaval. What does the nation’s recent election offer young nations hoping for postcolonialist democracy? Lydia opens her reporter’s notebook and explores these questions with the South African journalist William Shoki and her editor, Max Strasser.

A full transcript of this episode will be available within 24 hours of publication on the Times website

Mentioned in this episode:

• “Many voters are hooked on their abusive rulers” by William Gumede in the Sunday Times
• “South African election turns populist as parties play anti-foreigner card” by David Pilling and Monica Mark in the Financial Times
• “Neither Settler Nor Native” by Mahmoud Mamdani

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