In 2015, South Africa celebrated its 21st anniversary as a democratic state. This anniversary was in part boosted by the largely successful rolling out of a fifth free and fair election process in the previous year, albeit with minor hiccups – among others, a vibrant and at times boisterous political party scene; re-energised civil society participation, and a critical refl ection of the Chapter 9 institutions, with some under constant scrutiny. However, South Africa’s coming-of-age story has also been peppered with signs of increased dissatisfaction with governmental decision making and leadership style, protests around the delivery of services, continuous development and poverty issues as well as concerns about the republic’s international conduct and its image and reputation in Africa and the world. Government and politics in South Africa provides an up-to-date introductory narrative on the contemporary political environment in South Africa.

Government and politics in South Africa examines and evaluates the processes and policies in place that drive South Africa every day. While most chapters continue to reflect on the first two decades of post-settlement South African politics and governments, particular emphasis is placed upon the Jacob Zuma-led government’s first term of office (2009–2014), also touching on the initial months of this head of state’s second tenure as president. It examines the current political sphere, the local, provincial and national government, the policy footprint related to these governments, voting behaviour and party politics, foreign policy and the global political economy.

Government and politics in South Africa is aimed at both undergraduate and postgraduate students, and other interested observers to the complexities of South African politics and the governmental machinery that operates the country.

Chris Landsberg (editor-in-chief) is SARChI chair of African diplomacy and foreign policy at the University of Johannesburg.

Suzanne Graham (co-editor) is senior lecturer and doctor of politics at the University of Johannesburg.