President of South Africa Cyril Ramaphosa speaks at a plenary session during the 55th annual World Economic Forum (WEF) meeting in Davos, Switzerland, 21 January 2025. The World Economic Forum's annual meeting gathers entrepreneurs, scientists, and corporate and political leaders in Davos from January 20 to 24. EPA-EFE/MICHAEL BUHOLZER Dr Motloung’s research is deeply rooted in interpretive qualitative methods, focusing on electoral behaviour and political developments. His latest work examines themes as diverse as the fragile state of constitutionalism, the implications of the 2024 elections on women in politics, and the often fraught relationship between Members of Parliament and their constituencies.
His recent publication in 2025 explores the impact of mentorship deficiencies on the career progression of young Black women, while his latest studies delve into the politics of water in South Africa—an area he believes is critical to the country’s long-term stability.
“At the core of my research is the blending of classical political theory with contemporary policy issues,” he explains. “Understanding how governance works—or doesn’t work—is central to ensuring that democratic institutions serve the people.”
The Challenges of 2025: Democracy Under Pressure
According to Dr Motloung, the most immediate political and economic challenge facing South Africa is the consolidation of its democracy in an era of coalition governance. The country’s political landscape is shifting, with weakened opposition parties and a polarized civil society. The fragmentation has stifled efforts at national unity, he argues, and created space for interest groups like AfriForum to push “parochial agendas.”
Perhaps even more concerning is the growing loss of trust in government. “People no longer believe in the political process,” he says. “Declining voter turnout is a symptom of deeper dissatisfaction. If government performance does not improve and politicians fail to demonstrate that they are working in the public interest, the erosion of trust will accelerate.”
Beyond politics, economic distress is exacerbating instability. The soaring cost of living has placed even middle-class households under strain. “Service backlogs are growing because many residents cannot afford municipal charges. This forces people to seek private alternatives, doubling their financial burden.”
And then there is corruption—an entrenched force that, Dr Motloung notes, breeds a “society of contempt.” From government tenders subverted for personal gain to the theft of electricity and water, these systemic failures weaken state legitimacy. “Even residents who can afford municipal rates are refusing to pay,” he observes, citing ethical decay as a major societal crisis.
South Africa’s Place in the World: A Balancing Act
On the global stage, South Africa faces an increasingly polarized geopolitical environment. Dr Motloung believes the country must exercise assertive non-alignment while safeguarding its sovereignty. “BRICS offers South Africa a vital platform to challenge arrogant foreign policy practices,” he says. But while the country must maintain its partnerships, it cannot afford to neglect African geopolitics.
“South Africa must take its role on the continent seriously,” he argues. “As a leading African nation, it should actively promote development across the region, fostering a united and prosperous continent.”
The Fragile Social Fabric
Dr Motloung views social instability as one of South Africa’s greatest threats. With unemployment soaring, service delivery protests on the rise, and crime syndicates tightening their grip on communities, the government faces an uphill battle. “The murder of school principals, extortion rackets in businesses—these are symptoms of a deeper governance failure,” he warns.
Addressing these challenges requires a multi-pronged approach. Strengthening law enforcement is crucial to curbing crime and corruption, while enhanced border security can help regulate economic migration. Ensuring that township residents who can afford municipal rates pay them is equally important, alongside scrutinizing the indigent register to ensure social assistance reaches those who truly need it. By tackling these issues systematically, South Africa can begin to restore trust in governance and build a more stable society.
The Road to 2035: A Blueprint for Reform
Looking ahead, Dr Motloung outlines key reforms essential for national stability. Chief among them is fostering national cohesion. “White and Afrikaner communities must make a concerted effort to integrate and work toward a common nationhood,” he asserts. “South Africa cannot move forward if segments of society seek to exist in isolation.”
At the municipal level, he urges a shift in how local governments engage with communities. “When residents take the initiative—whether by patching potholes or fixing infrastructure—municipalities shouldn’t see this as competition. The ANC has long said, ‘working together we can do more.’ It’s time to make that a reality.”
Economic reform must also be prioritized, particularly job creation and fair wages. “Certain jobs should be reserved for South African citizens, while education should be restructured to produce graduates with real-world competencies,” he suggests.
Finally, safety and security remain fundamental. “People need to feel safe at home and in the streets,” he insists. Without that, social trust and economic prosperity will remain elusive.
A Call for Pragmatism and Urgency
As South Africa grapples with the weight of its challenges, Dr Motloung’s insights provide a sobering yet hopeful assessment. The country stands at a crossroads, and the path forward will depend on decisive leadership, structural reform, and a willingness among citizens to contribute to a national project greater than individual interests.
“In the end,” he says, “it’s about restoring faith, not just in government, but in each other.” DM
Author: Bertie Jacobs