By book, the government primarily funds political parties in South Africa, through taxes and levies, and from individual members. The state funds all registered political parties in proportion to their electoral support at the previous election. But we all know that is far from reality.
Who sponsors political parties in South Africa?
Investment firms, security companies and the ultra-rich have all been pumping money into South Africa’s political parties. But a new report has found that, while this cash may make politicians more responsive to the interests of their donors, it also leaves them less accountable. The report – authored by researchers at the University of Johannesburg, who examined data for all major political parties in South Africa- found that the “big five” parties have received an estimated R53bn ($3.5bn) from a business over the past decade. Its authors say this disguised spending “leaves little room in the public-funding game for opposition parties.”The authors say that if the big five parties were to support a requirement for party funding transparency, their own reliance on this source of funding would be significantly lessened. The report also says that there is no evidence of corruption within either business or political spheres, but says there is “clear room” for improvement in terms of regulation and accountability.
Which political party has received the most funding from private sources?
The ruling African National Congress (ANC) has received the most funding from these groups as it is seen as a safe investment. The ANC has received at least $10 million from these groups in the last three years. The Democratic Alliance (DA) has also received funding from these groups but to a lesser extent than the ANC.
