South Africa: The Struggle for a New Order
In a sober, careful style, Ottaway (who edited The Political Economy of Ethiopia ) provides a solid overview of the conflict-ridden South African political transition since negotiations began in 1990. Since Ottaway ends her account after constitutional talks broke off in late 1992, this book lacks analysis of the recently proposed temporary coalition between the ruling National Party and the African National Congress. Still, she provides a wealth of details and context: how the parties' sense they were negotiating from strength hampered progress; how State President F. W. de Klerk has tried to woo recalcitrant whites while compromising with opposition leaders; how ANC members criticized their leaders' non-democratic style. She observes that reform of local government--also rooted in racial separation--is more important in South Africa than in many other transitions. Ottaway is pessimistic about future political harmony and sometimes downplays government complicity in political violence; still, this is a valuable guide to an important phase in South Africa's history.Copyright 1993 Reed Business Information, Inc.