Can the South African Constitution be changed to provide for a third presidential term?
South Africa’s Constitution is widely regarded as one of the most progressive in the world. It is the product of a lengthy process of negotiations and consensus. All political parties in the country regard it as the highest authority in the land, and the Constitutional Court ensures that its integrity is retained. Profound changes to the Constitution requires a two-thirds majority in both the National Assembly and the National Council of Provinces. The ruling African National Congress (ANC) currently enjoys a 69% majority in both houses of Parliament. However, both President Mbeki and senior spokespeople of the ANC have indicated that they will not seek amendments to the Constitution to allow for a third term. What if President Mbeki gets re-elected president of the ANC in 2007? The ANC will elect its new leadership and national executive committee in 2007. However, there is no constitutional connection between the leadership of the ruling party and that of the country. Even if Preside
