Spotlight
Duduzile | 7 min read | May 30, 2024
South African citizens are anxious, excited, and uncertain about the outcome of the upcoming May 29 elections which mark thirty years of democracy. There is undisputable consensus among the citizens that this election will mark a critical turning point in South Africa's democratic and political history. However, the anxiety and uncertainty within the political and electoral landscape have become a breeding ground for propaganda and disinformation. Propaganda and disinformation are seen to be posing dangers to SA’s democratic process. Both polarise communities, mislead voters, and erode trust in public institutions, responsible for election administration. To confirm these dangers, a recent UNESCO study notes that: "In today's rapidly evolving digital environment, opportunities for communication between citizens, politicians, and political parties are unprecedented –– with information related to elections flowing faster and easier than ever, […]with billions of human beings connected, ‘propaganda’ and disinformation circulating unhinged around the networks, democratic processes and access to reliable information are at risk.”[1] This risk is what South Africa is experiencing in its 2024 elections. Considering this, there is a need to shield democracy in the republic by countering propaganda and disinformation. The article's purpose is to discuss recent trends of propaganda and disinformation in South Africa's 2024 elections. The paper will also suggest possible measures to mitigate their impact.
With unemployment in South Africa at 32.1%, most political parties have been keen to talk up their ability to create jobs ahead of the May 2024 elections. But do the ruling ANC’s triumphant claims about a flagship programme stand up to scrutiny?
Duduzile | 3 min read | Jun 21, 2024
IN SHORT: A video circulating on social media shows US president Joe Biden allegedly threatening to sanction South Africa if the governing African National Congress wins the 2024 elections. But it was generated by an AI tool and should be ignored.
Sibongile Ndlovu | 3 min read | Apr 30, 2024
Did South Africa’s main opposition party get its facts right when it outlined how it would tackle several problem areas if it were voted into power?
Duduzile | 15 min read | Apr 30, 2024
Duduzile | 12 min read | Apr 2, 2024
Duduzile | 7 min read | Dec 30, 2023
Duduzile | 8 min read | Dec 30, 2023
Hive Mind | 9 min read | Dec 30, 2023