International Clout in the Political Salience of Traditional Leadership
in South Africa
Abstract
This paper argues that the international economic order, continental
politics, and cultural movement have primarily shaped how traditional
leaders evolved in South Africa. In this context, the overarching
neoliberal economic influence can be understood from two interlaced
factors: Firstly, post the soviet disintegration, South Africa
necessarily underwent a structural transition in the sphere of political
economy that opens up space for international actors. Secondly, the
cultural plurality was increasingly recognised and protected, which
further propitiates traditional leaders entrenching South Africa’s
market economy. Therefore, understanding the political salience of
traditional leadership in South Africa cannot be separated from the
international clout that impinges on the local governmentality.