State Capture in South Africa: Going Back to Basics

State capture has become institutionalised and entrenched in South Africa. The proliferation of discourse, debate, and interactions concerning state capture has compelled, inter alia, lawmakers, policymakers, scholars, and stakeholders to investigate the phenomenon. Consequently, the country can either continue its descent into spoils politics or revert to a stronger constitutional democracy.
This article explores the infiltration of state capture into the South African economic, political and social environment; consequences thereof; and provide recommendations to mitigate its negative effects on the government, society and the economy at large. In cognisance hereof, the purpose of the study is to advance state capture research by providing a comprehensive theoretical explanation of the phenomena and issues associated therewith. Furthermore, the ultimate objective is to identify effective policies and procedures which the country could consider to inhibit the phenomena.

The article adopted the qualitative research methodology and draws from an extensive review of the existing literature, for example, journals, media articles and books and explore ways in which state capture and ethical issues have manifested in South Africa. In conclusion, the resuscitation and recapitalisation of the anti-corruption mechanisms and the timely retribution of all parties implicated in state capture is recommended.