Decline in Support for Former Liberation Movements in Southern Africa Introduction: The recent South African election witnessed a significant drop in support for the African National Congress (ANC), marking a turning point in South Africa’s democracy and reflecting a broader decline in the popularity of former liberation movements as governments in southern Africa. Historical Context: Liberation movements, such as the ANC and the South West Africa People’s Organisation (SWAPO), played a crucial role in fighting for self-determination and ending minority regimes. However, post-independence, these movements have faced significant challenges in transitioning to governance. Governance Failures and Elite Capture: Following independence, a new elite has often taken control of governments, prioritizing their own interests over those of the people. This has led to kleptocracy, authoritarianism, and the erosion of trust in former liberation movements. Fanon’s Observations: Frantz Fanon’s analysis of decolonization in West Africa foreshadowed the governance failures of former liberation movements. He observed the emergence of oppressive and authoritarian regimes, which mistreated and intimidated their own citizens. Military Mindset and Authoritarianism: The fighting mentalities developed during the liberation struggle have persisted in post-independence governance, leading to authoritarian practices that undermine democratic norms. Equating the Party with the Government: The tendency to equate the ruling party with the government and the state has contributed to problematic democratic transitions and has led to a failure to separate powers and protect individual rights. Shattered Illusions and Frustration: Younger generations, who grew up after the end of minority rule, have become disillusioned with the performance of former liberation movements. They demand accountability and the fulfillment of promises made during the struggle. The Case of the ANC and SWAPO: Both the ANC and SWAPO have faced declining support in recent elections, due to factors such as state capture, corruption, and a failure to address the needs of the electorate. Independence without Democracy: While the struggle for independence has achieved the right to self-determination, it has come at the expense of democratic values and human rights. Liberation movements have often sacrificed constitutionalism in the pursuit of power. The ANC’s Recognition of Electoral Will: The ANC’s willingness to accept the results of the election and its commitment to transforming into a democratic political party represents a potential step forward in resolving unfinished business and addressing the challenges facing former liberation movements.Liberation Movements: Failures in Power Liberation movements, once symbols of hope and liberation, often struggle to translate their ideals into successful governance. This phenomenon has been observed in many countries, including South Africa and Namibia. There are numerous factors that contribute to the failures of liberation movements. One key issue is the lack of experience in running a government. Liberation movements are often led by individuals who have spent their lives fighting for political change. They may have limited understanding of the complexities of governance and the challenges of managing a modern economy. Another factor is the high expectations placed on liberation movements. After years of struggle and oppression, people often expect immediate improvements in their lives. However, it takes time to address complex social and economic issues. This can lead to frustration and disillusionment, resulting in a loss of support for the ruling movement. Corruption is also a major problem for liberation movements. When they come to power, they often control significant resources and patronage networks. This can lead to a culture of cronyism and corruption, which undermines public trust and hinders effective governance. Furthermore, liberation movements sometimes face resistance from within their own ranks. Different factions may emerge, each with its own interests and agendas. This can lead to internal divisions and conflicts, which can weaken the movement and make it less effective in addressing the needs of the country. In the case of South Africa and Namibia, liberation movements played a pivotal role in the overthrow of apartheid and colonial rule. However, they have encountered significant challenges in governing their countries effectively. Corruption, economic inequality, and social unrest have remained persistent problems. This has led to a growing sense of disillusionment among many citizens, who feel that the promises of liberation have not been fulfilled. The failures of liberation movements serve as a cautionary tale. While they may be necessary for bringing about political change, they do not always have the capacity to successfully govern. To address these challenges, it is crucial for liberation movements to prioritize good governance, transparency, and accountability. They must also work to build inclusive and democratic institutions that can withstand the pressures of power.