Democracy Compromised

Democracy compromised puts the spotlight on traditional authorities and addresses two main issues - first, how despite their role in the apartheid state, traditional authorities not only survived, but have won unprecedented powers of rural governance in South Africa's democracy, and second, how they derive their authority. This study carefully details the fascinating history of the chieftaincy in the Xhalanga area of the Eastern Cape. The author shows how traditional authorities have been dependent on the support of the state since the advent of colonialism and how deeply traditional structures have been contested. Light is shed on the unexpected renaissance of these authorities under ANC rule and the role of traditional leaders in the process of land allocation is clearly explained.