South Africans are set to go to the polls again on May 29 in what many believe will be the most important election since the first democratic elections in 1994.
The national and local elections mark the 30th anniversary of our democracy, a 30-year democratic project that began in 1994 with Nelson Mandela's Government of National Unity.
This historic election comes as the country stands at a political, economic and moral crossroads, facing the effects of state capture, the aftermath of the COVID-19 pandemic, widespread service disruptions and disruption on the international front. It is done when .
New politicians have entered the scene, and this election has more political parties than at any time in history. And for the first time, independent candidates will be able to run. The new departures from the ruling party, whose hegemony has not been seriously threatened since 1994, threaten to cost it its parliamentary majority for the first time. South Africans are faced with the reality that a coalition government could rule from May onwards.
To promote and encourage debate on the important issues facing South Africans in the run-up to the elections, and to help readers, viewers and the wider public better understand political parties and their arguments. As part of our contribution, email and guardian is hosting a series of town hall activities across the country.
To do that, we partner with the nation's historically black colleges and universities to bring politicians and leaders to campuses across the country and broadcast live debates from there.
The first edition, held at the University of Limpopo in March, was a huge success, bringing together politicians, civil society, business and young people for passionate and sometimes highly entertaining discussions.
The second Town Hall will be held at the University of Fort Hare on 17 April 2024 and will see top leaders from the five major political parties take part in an engaging panel discussion.
Click here for details | mg.co.za/nationalelectiondebate/
moderated by email and guardian Political Editor Rizeka Tandwa will deliver the opening remarks, while Professor Sakeela Boulung, Vice-Chancellor and Principal of the University of Fort Hare will deliver the opening remarks.
For the University of Fort Hare, the national election debate is part of the centenary celebrations of Professor ZK Matthews, the university's first graduate and architect of the Freedom Charter.
Panelists include::
ANC Vice-President Paul Mashatil;
Floyd Shivambu, vice president of the Economic Freedom Fighters;
Democratic Alliance leader Siviwe Gwalbe
Inkatha Freedom Party Deputy Leader Inkosi Mzamo Buthelezi and
ActionSA Eastern Cape Premier Candidate Athol Trollip
Register for the event
