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Articles by Dirk Kotze
Political disputes, technology risks will test the IEC's credibility
LOCAL GOVERNMENT ELECTIONS Prof. Dirk Kotzé|Published 2 minutes ago The Electoral Commission of South Africa (IEC) launched its National Results Operation Centre (ROC) in Midrand on October 28. The Commission has made an important contribution towards a public culture of political competition and tolerance, of diverse political views, and of enhancing the quality of democracy, says the writer.
Tshwane braces for more coalition turbulence
Tshwane stands slightly in the shadows of the election campaigns in Johannesburg and other hotspots, given the prominence of Helen Zille and others. Focusing more on Tshwane, it is taken for granted that its next local government will again be a coalition, but how it will materialise remains a matter of debate. Tshwane is one of the metropolitan councils that turned towards a coalition government in 2016. This election will therefore signal a milestone of the ten years of coalition government.
Navigating local government coalitions a litmus test for political parties
Prof. Dirk Kotzé|Published 6 minutes ago Electoral Commission of South Africa (IEC) officials sort ballots during the 2024 national and provincial elections counting process at Itereleng informal settlement polling station in Pretoria on May 29, 2024. Despite the negative experience, the number of local coalitions is increasing all the time, and in 2024 it expanded also to two provincial governments (KZN and Gauteng) and the national sphere, says the writer.
Long road ahead for reforming SA's criminal justice system
Prof Dirk Kotzé On 17 September, the Madlanga Commission reached the milestone of being in operation for exactly one year. At present, it intends to conclude its public hearings on 2 October and then proceed to prepare its final report. During this one year, it has already submitted two interim reports to President Ramaphosa. During this year, numerous witnesses have appeared in court, Lt-Gen Feroz Khan has been removed from SAPS, and Andrea Johnson resigned as the IDAC head.
Low turnout, coalition politics hover over 2026 local elections
Prof Dirk Kotzé Determining the levels of support for the parties in an election in the period prior to the election has become a science on its own. Using a representative sample of the total eligible voter population and conducting interviews with them is, at the moment, the only mechanism available to predict the possible election results. They are done by private companies who are often also involved in market research.
The Role of Public Trust in the Upcoming Local Government Elections
Prof. Dirk Kotzé|Published 4 days ago Residents of Elias Motsoaledi informal settlement in Soweto, register to vote at a voter registration station on June 21. Service delivery improvements and matters related to the quality of life of residents are predicted to dominate the elections, says the writer. Image: Itumeleng English/ ANA Studio Prof Dirk Kotzé Registrations for the local government election (LGE) close on Friday, 7 August.
Is Ramaphosa's impeachment inevitable? Understanding the political landscape
PHALA PHALA SAGA Prof. Dirk Kotzé|Published 7 minutes ago Rise Mzansi parliamentarian Makashule Gana (left) was elected as the Chairperson of Parliament's Section 89 Impeachment Committe. Image: ParliamentRSA/Supplied Prof. Dirk Kotzé The latest impeachment developments targeted at President Cyril Ramaphosa take one invariably back to the situations of Presidents Thabo Mbeki and Jacob Zuma.
Ramaphosa Impeachment: Quest for the Truth Must be Parliament's Priority
PHALA PHALA SAGA Prof. Dirk Kotzé|Published 29 minutes ago Rise Mzansi parliamentarian Makashule Gana (left) was elected as the Chairperson of Parliament's Section 89 Impeachment Committee on June 01. If public opinion regards Ramaphosa’s impeachment as a threat to the GNU, then the decision becomes immensely complicated, says the writer. Image: Parliament RSA Prof.
Ramaphosa impeachment: political grandstanding or a quest for the truth?
Cape Times | June 05, 2026 THE latest impeachment developments targeted at President Ramaphosa take one invariably back to the situations of Presidents Mbeki and Zuma. Over the past 32 years, only President Mandela's term of office was not threatened by a premature termination. Mbeki was recalled by the ANC’s NEC and then resigned as national president. Zuma resigned immediately before his parliamentary impeachment process could commence after numerous failed motions of no confidence.
100 days of the Madlanga Commission and a new era for justice
Prof. Dirk Kotzé
100 Days of the Madlanga Commission and a New Era for Justice
CRIMINAL JUSTICE SYSTEM CORRUPTION Prof. Dirk Kotzé|Published 8 minutes ago JUSTICE Mbuyiseli Madlanga (centre) flanked by Adv. Sesi Baloyi, SC (left) and Adv. Sandile Khumalo, SC at the commencement of the Judicial Commission of Inquiry into Criminality, Political Interference and Corruption in the Criminal Justice System on September 17, 2025. Image: GCIS Prof Dirk Kotzé The Madlanga Commission has now reached the symbolic milestone of 100 days in operation.
Pretoria News· 5h DA seeks electoral supremacy through generational change 5 min read
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DA Seeks Electoral Supremacy Through Generational Change
LOCAL GOVERNMENT ELECTIONS Prof. Dirk Kotzé|Published 25 minutes ago (FROM LEFT) New leader of the Democratic Alliance (DA) Geordin Hill-Lewis, Federal Chairperson Solly Msimanga and Johannesburg mayoral candidate Helen Zille on the party's local government elections campaign in Pimville, Soweto on April 13.
South Africa’s biggest opposition party will head to municipal elections with new leaders: what does it all mean? - Inside Politic
By Dirk Kotze Speculation continues about why John Steenhuisen announced that he would not be available for re-election as the federal leader of South Africa’s Democratic Alliance (DA) at the party’s April federal congress. The DA is the country’s main opposition party and, since elections in 2024 in which the African National Congress lost its majority, part of a government of national unity.
South Africa's Biggest Opposition Party Will Head to Municipal Elections With New Leaders - What Does It All Mean?
analysis Speculation continues about why John Steenhuisen announced that he would not be available for re-election as the federal leader of South Africa's Democratic Alliance (DA) at the party's April federal congress. The DA is the country's main opposition party and, since elections in 2024 in which the African National Congress lost its majority, part of a government of national unity.
South Africa’s biggest opposition party will head to municipal elections with new leaders: what does it all mean?
Speculation continues about why John Steenhuisen announced that he would not be available for re-election as the federal leader of South Africa’s Democratic Alliance (DA) at the party’s April federal congress. The DA is the country’s main opposition party and, since elections in 2024 in which the African National Congress lost its majority, part of a government of national unity.
South Africa’s biggest opposition party will head to municipal elections with new leaders: what does it all mean?
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ANC’s survival hangs by a thread despite NGC’s unity plea
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Challenges Ahead for the Madlanga Commission: Extended Timelines Expected
Prof. Dirk Kotzé|Published 9 minutes ago 5min National Police Commissioner Fannie Masemola in the hot seat as he commenced with his evidence at the Madlanga Commission in Pretoria today (Monday). Image: Kamogelo Moichela/IOL Politics Prof Dirk Kotzé Last Wednesday, the judicial commission of inquiry, chaired by Judge Madlanga, commenced with its hearings related to the statements made in early July by Lt Gen Mkhwanazi.
Young South Africans don’t bother with elections: would lowering the voting age make a difference?
By Dirk Kotze, Professor in Political Science, University of South Africa South Africa is due to hold local government elections in 2026. In the last election in 2021, only 15% of the eligible voters aged 18 to 21 registered for the election. In view of this, it’s worth considering whether the minimum voting age of 18 years should be reduced to increase participation. What are the main driving forces for such a consideration? Based on international comparisons, how advisable would it be?
Young South Africans don’t bother with elections: would lowering the voting age make a difference?
South Africa is due to hold local government elections in 2026. In the last election in 2021, only 15% of the eligible voters aged 18 to 21 registered for the election. In view of this, it’s worth considering whether the minimum voting age of 18 years should be reduced to increase participation. What are the main driving forces for such a consideration? Based on international comparisons, how advisable would it be? What would be some of the implications of such a change for elections in South Africa?
Chipezeze elated with double award nominations
Elvis Chipezeze of Magesi FC during the Carling Knockout quarter final match between TS Galaxy and Magesi FC. Magesi captain Elvis Chipezeze has expressed his delight following his nomination for the Carling Knockout Player of the Tournament and Betway Premiership Goalkeeper of the Season awards. The awards ceremony takes place on July 29. Challenging Chipezeze for the Carling Knockout award are teammate Edmore Chirambadare and Mamelodi Sundowns' Iqraam Rayners.
Maseko, Mashego headline Downs' likely departures
After Mamelodi Sundowns coach Miguel Cardoso announced last week that they will be working tirelessly to reduce the squad size, we look at players who are likely to be affected: Terrence Mashego The left-back has found it difficult to break into the starting line-up, making only 13 appearances this past season.
Afrikaner Genocide, Persecution Claims Lacks Legal Foundation
NATION BUILDING Prof Dirk Kotzé|Published 5 minutes ago 5min Afrikaners waiting to be briefed by U.S. government officials in a hangar at Dulles International Airport, Washington on May 12, 2025. President Trump’s decision to grant refugee status to white Afrikaners is unique and makes a general political statement about South Africa, says the writer. Image: AFP Prof Dirk Kotzé Immigration, asylum and refugee status have become controversial global issues and affect the politics of many countries.
GNU Survival: Cyril Ramaphosa's Tough Balancing Act as Pressure Mounts to Address DA Conundrum
The GNU is under serious pressure, which is even more exacerbated by the concomitant pressure from President Trump on South Africa, and the ANC in particular, says the writer. Image by: IOL Published 19m ago | Published 19m ago Prof Dirk Kotzé Approval of the annual Budget in any country is comparable to a vote of confidence in the government. In presidential systems, it is often characterized by negotiations and deal-making between the Executive and Parliament.
GNU Survival: Cyril Ramaphosa's Tough Balancing Act as Pressure Mounts to Address DA Conundrum
The GNU is under serious pressure, which is even more exacerbated by the concomitant pressure from President Trump on South Africa, and the ANC in particular, says the writer. Image by: IOL Published 5h ago | Published 5h ago Prof Dirk Kotzé Approval of the annual Budget in any country is comparable to a vote of confidence in the government. In presidential systems, it is often characterized by negotiations and deal-making between the Executive and Parliament.
e-Voting in South Africa
People queue outside an IEC voting station in the Endlovini informal settlement in Khayelitsha. Photographer: Ayanda Ndamane/ Independent Newspapers Published 19m ago | Published 19m ago Unknowing for most South Africans, we are in a phase of potentially far-reaching reforms of the electoral system and election practices. At the time of last year’s national and provincial a reform element was introduced, namely the possibility that independent candidates can stand in these elections.
Beganovic aims to rocket Galaxy to Confed Cup spot
Keagan Dolly of TS Galaxy F.C. After helping TS Galaxy move from the relegation zone to a top-four spot in the Betway Premiership, coach Adnan Beganovic has outlined their ambitious goal of finishing third and qualifying for the CAF Confederation Cup next season. The Rockets have been enjoying an excellent run under Beganovic, who replaced Sead Ramovic earlier this season. Their run saw them in fourth place in the table with seven matches remaining before the end of the campaign.
Diplomatic Finesse, Effective Communication Key to Navigating the Trump Era Original
US PRESIDENT Donald Trump displays his letter to the UN regarding the US withdrawal from the Paris Agreement in Washington, DC, on January 20, 2025. The relationship between South Africa and the US is not set on a level playing field managed by a non-partisan referee, says the writer. Published 5m ago | Published 5m ago Prof Dirk Kotzé THE Trump administration commenced with an explosion of presidential executive orders.
Diplomatic Finesse, Effective Communication Key to Navigating the Trump Era
US PRESIDENT Donald Trump displays his letter to the UN regarding the US withdrawal from the Paris Agreement in Washington, DC, on January 20, 2025. The relationship between South Africa and the US is not set on a level playing field managed by a non-partisan referee, says the writer. Published 16h ago | Published 16h ago Prof Dirk Kotzé THE Trump administration commenced with an explosion of presidential executive orders.
Galaxy focus on cup after Downs win
Victor Letsoalo of TS Galaxy FC outfoxes Mamelodi Sundowns’ Teboho Mokoena at Mbombela Stadium on Tuesday. TS Galaxy coach Adnan Beganovic strongly believes their recent purple patch was on merit, lauding his players for grasping his teachings after replacing Sead Ramovic in November, after serving as his deputy for two years.
We lost due to fatigued - Cardoso bemoans Downs' 'impossible' schedule
Miguel Cardoso of Mamelodi Sundowns during the Betway Premiership match between TS Galaxy and Mamelodi Sundowns at Mbombela Stadium on February 11, 2025 in Nelspruit, Mamelodi Sundowns coach Miguel Cardoso has chalked up Tuesday's 1-0 shock defeat to TS Galaxy at Mbombela Stadium to fatigue, also admitting the way Galaxy set up their defensive schemes made life difficult for the Brazilians.
Beganovic's unbeaten record faces Downs test
Dzenan Zajmovic of TS Galaxy in action. TS Galaxy coach Adnan Beganovic has vowed his side will show their mettle against high-flying Mamelodi Sundowns when they meet in the Betway Premiership match at Mbombela Stadium on Tuesday (7.30pm). The Rockets come into this fixture with their confidence high as they are undefeated in 11 matches Beganovic has been in charge of. Teboho Mokoena of Mamelodi Sundowns is always a danger man.
SA's Foreign Policy: Salvaging Continental, Global Reputation Will Be A Daunting Task Original
(From left to right) Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan, Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi, Brazilian President Luiz Inacio Lula da Silva, South African President Cyril Ramaphosa, and Chinese President Xi Jinping join G20 leaders for a group photo at the G20 Summit in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil, on November 18, 2024. Picture: AFP Published 9h ago | Published 9h ago Prof.
Every point counts - Beganovic unfazed by many draws
Kamogelo Sebelebele of TS Galaxy FC during the Betway Premiership match between TS Galaxy and Cape Town City FC at Mbombela TS Galaxy coach Adnan Beganovic isn't perturbed by their high rate of drawn matches, insisting every point will count at the end of the season as they aim to be in the top eight. Galaxy have already played six draws, more than any other side in the Betway Premiership, from 14 outings.
Ideological conflicts a significant threat to GNU’s survival
The member of the 7th administration in Government of National Unity (GNU). Picture: X/South African Government. Published 11m ago | Published 11m ago Though already in operation for about six months, the Government of National Unity (GNU) is still the focus of speculation about its sustainability or longevity. Many sceptics cannot see a long-term partnership between the ANC and DA.
Magesi aim to reach maiden cup final
Elvis Chipezeze of Magesi FC during the Carling Knockout, Quarter Final match between TS Galaxy and Magesi FC Magesi captain Elvis Chipezeze feels being underdogs in the league suits them fine as it has played into their hands in the Carling Knockout and Betway Premiership matches. In their first season in the Premiership, Dikwena tša Meetse are making history as they reached the semifinal in the Carling Knockout where they will face Richards Bay at King Zwelithini Stadium on Saturday at 3pm.
Magesi on brink of greatness after historic semifinal
Clinton Larsen of Magesi FC during the Carling Knockout, Quarter Final match between TS Galaxy and Magesi FC at Mbombela Stadium on November 03, 2024 in Mbombela, South Africa. Magesi coach Clinton Larsen feels it will be a massive achievement for his side should they beat Richards Bay and progress to the Carling Knockout final.
Galaxy ready for Bucs’ train
Puso Dithejane of TS Galaxy TS Galaxy playmaker Puso Dithejane made it clear they've set their sights on beating Orlando Pirates to snap their winless streak in the league. Struggling Galaxy, who alongside AmaZulu are the only two teams without a win in the Betway Premiership season so far, host top of the table Orlando Pirates, who've won all five of their fixtures, at Mbombela Stadium on Tuesday (7.30pm). “The preparations have gone well. We are ready for the game.
POLL | Will the Boks lift the trophy after their Rugby Championship Test against Argentina?
Much pressure will be on the Springboks when the team plays Argentina at Mbombela Stadium in Mpumalanga on Saturday (5pm). Last week, the Boks were beaten 29-28 by the Los Pumas in Argentina in their Rugby Championship title battle. The World Champions had not lost a game before then in this year's tournament and will have a point to prove in the coming game. The Boks can wrap up the title with a win, a draw or even a defeat with a bonus point.
Springboks leave it late before edging All Blacks
South Africa scored two late tries to come back from a 10-point deficit to edge New Zealand 31-27 in a bruising Rugby Championship clash at Ellis Park on Saturday that came close to matching the intensity of last year's World Cup final.
Maela concerned about 'unfair' expectations in CAF run
Orlando Pirates captain Innocent Maela. Orlando Pirates captain Innocent Maela feels it'd be unfair to expect the current crop of players to excel in the CAF Champions League based on the club's pedigree in the competition. Pirates have reached the Champions League final twice in their history. The first time they were in the final, in 1995, they lifted the trophy, before losing to Al Ahly in the 2013's decider.
Maela happy to play Disciples in Mauritius
Innocent Maela of Orlando Pirates during the Nedbank Cup, Orlando Pirates skipper Innocent Maela feels battling it out against "ball-playing" Malagasy side Disciples in Mauritius is an advantage for the Buccaneers. Pirates and Disciples trade blows in the first leg of the CAF Champions League first preliminary round at Cote D’or National Sports Complex in Mauritius on Sunday (1pm SA time). Madagascar doesn't have stadiums that meet CAF requirements to host matches, hence this tie is in Mauritius.
Makhaula predicts tough season for Mofokeng
Relebohile is tipped to excel this season. Orlando Pirates workhorse Makhehleni “Cash” Makhaula foresees a big yet difficult season for his talismanic teammate Relebohile Mofokeng, albeit he believes the reigning Young Player of the Season will still shine. Mofokeng capped off what was a fine season in style by scoring the winner in the Nedbank Cup final against Mamelodi Sundowns at Mbombela Stadium in June.
Haggle over backroom staff scuppered Ramovic's Raja deal
Sead Ramovic of TS Galaxy FC TS Galaxy coach Sead Ramovic has revealed that his move to Moroccan giants Raja Casablanca collapsed because he refused to compromise his values by leaving his back room staff behind. Ramovic was poised to join Raja until the Moroccan champions decided to discontinue negotiations at the 11th hour, eventually hiring Bosnian coach Rusmir Cviko.
Rulani, Ramovic rivalry to continue in Morocco
Rulani Mokwena and Sean Ramovic of TS Galaxy during one of their many standoffs in the PSL. Rivals Sead Ramovic and Rulani Mokwena are set for a reunion in Morocco in the upcoming season. TS Galaxy’s Ramovic is on the verge of joining Raja Casablanca as a head coach to replace Josef Zinnbauer, who has parted ways with the club. Mokwena has already taken over as head coach at Wydad Casablanca following his exit from Mamelodi Sundowns earlier this month.
Troubled upbringing motivates Hotto
Deon Hotto of Orlando Pirates. Orlando Pirates workhorse Deon Hotto has narrated how his dark past, which also saw him spend four months in jail in 2012, motivates him to keep going and be a role model for people in his native country of Namibia and SA. “What keeps me going is looking where I come from back home.
Full text: Communique of the Third Plenary Session of the 20th Central Committee of the Communist Party of China
The third plenary session of the 20th Central Committee of the Communist Party of China was held from July 15 to 18 in Beijing, China. Picture: Xinhua Published 5m ago | Published 5m ago The 20th Central Committee of the Communist Party of China concluded its third plenary session on Thursday with a communique issued.
IOL and Independent Media statement on @Goolammv investigation
Independent Media and IOL Published 1h ago | Published 1h ago IOL and Independent Media on Wednesday provided an update on the ongoing investigation into the @Goolammv X (formerly Twitter) account, revealing significant findings and addressing previous errors in the investigation.
Ramaphosa’s tough balancing act in an era of coalitions
| Published 3m ago By Bheki Mngomezulu THE announcement by President Cyril Ramaphosa’s office that the opening of Parliament would take place on July 18, 2024, confirmed that the Government of National Unity (GNU) discussions have been concluded and the real work would now begin after the mudslinging that characterised the election campaign period. The announcement was welcomed, with euphoria and ecstasy, for various reasons.
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