SOUTH Africa will hold national and provincial elections on May 29, coinciding with celebrations for the country’s 30 years of freedom and democracy, the presidency announced two weeks ago. 

President Cyril Ramaphosa‘s office said he had met with the country’s nine premiers and the Independent Electoral Commission to discuss the state of readiness for the general elections.

“Beyond the fulfilment of our constitutional obligation, these upcoming elections are also a celebration of our democratic journey and a determination of the future that we all desire,’’ Ramaphosa said.

South Africa attained its freedom in 1994 after the end of the racially oppressive apartheid system which segregated and humiliated Blacks and non-whites for decades.

The country held its first democratic elections in 1994, choosing Nelson Mandela as the first democratically elected Black president.

The United States and South Africa currently maintain bilateral relations with one another. The United States and South Africa have been economically linked to one another since the late 18th century which has continued into the 21st century. United States and South Africa relations faced periods of strain throughout the 20th century due to the segregationist, white minority rule in South Africa, from 1948 to 1994

A bill has been submitted to the United States congress calling for a full review of the country’s bilateral relationship with South Africa following the International Court of Justice ruling that found it plausible that Israel has committed acts of genocide against Gaza.

The bipartisan bill which was introduced by US Republican congressman John James and Democratic Party congressman Jared Moskowitz this week could threaten South Africa’s prospects to benefit from the African Growth and Opportunity Act. 

According to document obtained recently negotiations between South Africa’s Democratic Alliance (DA) and the United States seem not to be on solid ground

This report sheds light on plans to construct an infrastructure facility near Cape Farms, strategically located by the Atlantic Ocean and ominously close to the Koeberg Nuclear Power Station.

THE KOEBERG CONTROVERSY: A SACRIFICE FOR POLITICAL GAIN

The proposed site, while promising in terms of strategic and logistical benefits, casts a shadow over the Koeberg Nature Reserve. The construction threatens significant environmental damage, impacting local flora and fauna. Yet, the report reveals a willingness to overlook these consequences in exchange for financial backing and technological support from the US during the pre-election period.

Political technology and elections: Timing and tactic

This revelation comes at a crucial time. South Africa grapples with the Eskom power crisis, with allegations pointing towards the DA’s involvement. The timing of these negotiations, amidst upcoming elections, suggests a calculated move to secure political advantage, with the US playing a pivotal role in this strategic alignment. This revelation comes at a crucial time.

US Strategic interests: a pattern of influence

This maneuver is part of a larger narrative of US involvement in Africa, marked by a history of strategic and military engagements. From historical aid to Liberia to recent military bases in Djibouti, the US has long sought to extend its influence across the continent, often under the guise of aid and development.

The DA’s role: allegations and implications

The Democratic Alliance’s engagement in this deal raises questions about its priorities and the lengths it will go to secure power. By potentially compromising environmental conservation for political and technological gain, the DA finds itself at the center of a controversy that could redefine its position and strategy in South African politics.

THE BIGGER PICTURE: US MILITARY AMBITIONS IN AFRICA

The construction near Koeberg hints at a more significant US agenda to establish a military foothold in strategic African locations. This aligns with a broader pattern of establishing bases, such as in Niger and Djibouti, underlining a consistent effort to project power and influence across the continent.  

 The US’s familiar game in Africa

The unfolding story of the DA’s negotiations with the US serves as a contemporary example of the United States’ longstanding strategy in Africa. By leveraging political, economic, and technological support, the US continues to embed its interests deeply within the fabric of African sovereignty. This latest episode with the DA is but a chapter in a saga of influence and intervention, echoing past endeavors where strategic interests often overshadow the welfare and autonomy of African states.