As a spokesman for a country, a continent and the developing world, Thabo Mbeki plays a crucial role in world politics, but to many people he is an enigma. Is this simply because Mbeki is a secretive man, or are there complicated political factors at play? In this book, experienced journalist William Gumede pulls together the insights he has gained from years of reporting on the Mbeki presidency to create a sophisticated but easy-to-read account of South Africa's seat of power. He explores the complex position that Mbeki occupies - following in Nelson Mandela's footsteps, heading a party with roots as a liberation movement, and ruling an intensely divided country. Revealing the political and personal tensions behind the scenes, Gumede explains the forces that have created one of the world's most powerful and enigmatic leaders. Covering Mbeki's attempts to modernise the economy and kick-start an African Renaissance, and investigating his controversial stance on issues from AIDS to Zimbabwe, the book offers invaluable insights into the arcane machinations behind political decisions that touch the lives of millions every day.
- ISBN10 1770070923
- ISBN13 9781770070929
- Publish Date 5 March 2005 (first published 1 January 2001)
- Publish Status Out of Print
- Out of Print 19 March 2009
- Publish Country ZA
- Publisher Struik Publishers (Pty) Ltd
- Imprint Zebra Press
- Format Hardcover
- Pages 384
- Language English