The State of South African Democracy – PhD Takes Stock of Where We are 30 Years on

With a deep interest in politics dating back to his teen years, Dr Joseph Sindane’s choice of research topic for his PhD in Political Science comes as no surprise.

Well versed in the inner-workings of regional and provincial government after gaining experience in various positions, Sindane has used this knowledge to explore and investigate his thesis titled, “Three Decades of South African Democratic Experiment: Consolidating or Retreating?”

His research examines and interrogates the state and trajectory of South African democracy, thirty years after the 1994 democratic breakthrough – including the country’s ability to withstand both internal and external pressures.

Delving deeper into his analysis, Sindane said: ‘The concept of democracy and democratic consolidation are highly contested. Scholars here and abroad are divided on their definitions, making it difficult to determine whether a particular democracy will endure. I found this deeply intriguing – hence my research into South Africa’s democratic trajectory.’

Revealing his findings, Sindane said: ‘South Africa’s democratic experiment, though facing challenges, has overall shown the resilience of South African society – even as equality remains an unfulfilled promise for many. I hope my study will help society answer the question: Will our democracy endure, given the high levels of inequality, poverty and unemployment?’

Sindane’s research also led to thought-provoking findings that challenged his own prior beliefs.

‘My most interesting discovery was that the current constitutional democratic order retained many apartheid-era institutions – such as the courts and state-owned enterprises – which suggests that not everything from that system was inherently flawed,’ he said.

Reflecting on challenges during his studies, Sindane said that COVID-19 significantly delayed the completion of his thesis – but in the end, he managed to overcome the setback and finish it.

Sindane had high praise for UKZN saying: ‘The lecturers and the administration staff are superb. Their work ethic is unmatched. They must continue working hard to make the University an even better institution of higher learning – not just in South Africa, but around the world. My supervisor Dr Biniam Misgun remains an inspiration to me. His support throughout the course of my study is incomparable.’

At home, he said he could not have achieved this milestone without the support of his wife, Zanele, and their children – and he hopes this achievement will inspire them too.

‘I am elated and proud of this achievement. More importantly, I’m excited to contribute to strengthening public discourse on building a better democratic nation for all South Africans – regardless of their station in life – especially in my current role as Strategic Advisor to the Member of the Mayoral Committee responsible for Finance, Corporate Planning and Strategy in the City of Ekurhuleni,’ Sindane said.

Sindane is currently pursuing a sixth degree – a Master of Laws (LLM) in Constitutional and Administrative Law.

Words: Jennene Naidu

Photograph: Sethu Dlamini