HAS THE POST-1994 SOUTH AFRICAN DEMOCRATIC STATE LOST LEGITIMACY: ASSESSING THE STATE'S LEGITIMACY 31 YEARS SINCE THE DEMOCRATIC BREAKTHROUGH.

Abstract

This study critically examines whether the post-1994 South African democratic state has retained legitimacy 31 years after the democratic breakthrough. Employing a mixed-methods approach that combined six in-depth qualitative interviews with 24 quantitative survey responses, the research assessed citizens’ perceptions of democratic performance across four key dimensions: the fulfilment of democratic promises, the impact of inequality and unemployment, the role of corruption and dominant-party politics, and South Africa’s positioning within global indices of democracy. Findings reveal that while formal political rights such as universal suffrage and media freedom remain intact, substantive legitimacy is eroded by persistent socio-economic exclusion, high unemployment, and deep inequality. Quantitative data indicated that 72 percent of respondents considered inequality the greatest threat to democracy, while qualitative narratives underscored widespread disillusionment with service delivery and exclusion from economic opportunities. Corruption emerged as the most significant factor undermining trust, with 80 percent of respondents linking it to declining legitimacy. Moreover, the African National Congress’s continued dominance was seen as weakening accountability, echoing comparative studies of single-party systems. Global assessments, including those of Freedom House and the Economist Intelligence Unit, were broadly perceived as accurate reflections of domestic realities. The study concludes that South Africa remains a “flawed democracy,” resilient in its institutional structures yet fragile in citizen trust. Recommendations emphasise inclusive economic reforms, stronger anti-corruption mechanisms, enhanced electoral competitiveness, and constructive engagement with international assessments as essential to restoring legitimacy and sustaining democratic consolidation.