Patterns of political influence in South Africa

ABSTRACT

In this article∗∗ it is endeavoured to elucidate patterns of political influence in South Africa. A great number of political movements, political parties and interest groups impinge on politics in South Africa. The central question addressed is the extent to which these groups, through exertion of political influence, contribute towards the dismantling or the maintenance of the central tenets of racial policy. ‘Political influence’ is conceptualized as a broader phenomenon than mere impact on the policy process. In the face of curtailment of access to this process, influence is manifested, for instance, in activities of political mobilization. This article proposes a model in which all patterns of political influence in South Africa can be incorporated.