Politics of South Africa

Overview

South Africa is a vibrant democracy with an elected president acting as the head of government.  The constitution, adopted in 1996, defines this medical tourism center as a “democratic republic,” with emphasis on protecting human rights and maintaining the sanctity of rule of law. 

Branches of Government

All executive power is vested in the government, with the president as the head.  The South African Parliament comprises two houses – the National Assembly and the Council of Provinces.  Legislative power is vested both in the government and Parliament.  The country has an independent judiciary that functions autonomously of the executive and legislature.

Constitution

South Africa’s constitution provides for extensive and far-reaching guarantees, including the prohibition of discrimination, forced labor and slavery, and equality before the law.  The Bill of Rights also includes secondary rights that include the right to health care, education, and housing.

Elections

The first truly democratic election in this medical tourism destination was held in 1994.  Elections are scheduled every five years.  The country’s vibrant democracy can be seen in the number of political parties that operate here, a total of 16 of them in Parliament.  The African National Congress which played a vital role in the county’s anti-apartheid struggle is the preeminent party in the country.  Currently, 8 of the country’s 9 provinces are controlled by the ANC. 

Other political parties also play an active role in keeping the wheels of democracy moving in this medical tourism powerhouse.  These include the Democratic Alliance, the Inkatha Freedom Party whose support base is made up mainly of Zulu speaking people, and the United Democratic Power which sees itself as a contender to the ANC.  The National Party, earlier the New National Party that ruled the country through much of the Apartheid era, has seen its vote base shrink in the past decade.  It was disbanded in 2004, and many of its members joined the ANC.  

Medical Tourism Articles	Medical Tourism Blogs
Advertise With Us