Enemy of the People: Unpacking Zuma's South Africa
An investigative deep dive into state capture, corruption, and the fight for accountability, based on the book by Adriaan Basson and Pieter du Toit.
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About the Book
Title and Premise
Enemy of the People: How Jacob Zuma stole South Africa and how the people fought back is a seminal 2017 publication by South African political journalists Adriaan Basson and Pieter du Toit. The work meticulously details the establishment of a patronage network within the South African government under President Jacob Zuma, the subsequent process of state capture, and the forces of both complicity and resistance that defined this era.[1][2]
Publisher's Perspective
Jonathan Ball Publishers, the book's publisher, characterizes the work as the "first definitive account of Zumaโs catastrophic misrule."[3] This framing underscores the book's critical stance and its aim to provide a comprehensive historical record of a tumultuous period in South African governance.
Core Focus
The book delves into the intricate mechanisms through which state resources were allegedly exploited for personal and political gain. It examines the key figures and families involved, particularly the Gupta family, and their alleged role in influencing government decisions and state-owned enterprises.
Key Subjects Explored
Jacob Zuma
The book centers on the presidency of Jacob Zuma, examining the alleged systemic corruption and state capture that occurred during his tenure. It scrutinizes his role in fostering a patronage network and the consequences for South Africa's institutions.
State Capture and Corruption
A primary theme is the phenomenon of "state capture," where private interests allegedly influenced state affairs and institutions for personal enrichment. The book provides detailed accounts of how this process allegedly unfolded under Zuma's leadership.[1]
The Gupta Family
The influential Gupta family is prominently featured, with the book detailing their alleged involvement in facilitating state capture. Their alleged role in influencing ministerial appointments and state-owned enterprises is a significant focus.
South African Politics
The narrative is firmly rooted in the political context of South Africa, exploring the dynamics within the ruling party, the opposition, and civil society. It examines the systemic weaknesses and the efforts made by various actors to resist or enable the alleged capture of the state.
Notable Scandals Detailed
The Jet Airways / SAA Route Dispute
The book highlights specific instances of alleged manipulation, such as the attempt by the Gupta family, purportedly on behalf of Jet Airways, to compel the state-owned South African Airways (SAA) to relinquish its Johannesburg-Mumbai air route. This allegedly involved the appointment of compliant government ministers to facilitate the maneuver.[4] This incident serves as a concrete example of the alleged influence wielded by external interests.
Publication Details
Bibliographic Information
The following details provide essential bibliographic context for Enemy of the People:
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