International Clout in the Political Salience of Traditional Leadership in South Africa

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.