Dr. Ralph Mathekga (PhD)

Political Analyst, Author & Democracy Specialist

Meet Dr. Ralph Mathekga (PhD)

Dr Ralph Mathekga (PhD) started his studies in Political Science, Law and Economic History at the University of the Witwatersrand, where he completed BA degree. He subsequently completed honours degree in Political Science as well as a MA (Masters) in Political Science, at the same university. Ralph has completed PhD in Political Studies at University of Johannesburg (2018). His thesis focuses on the court challenges on affirmative action in South Africa and the implications on equality and justice. Ralph also completed studies at the New School for Social Research, New York, where he spent 3 years researching and publishing. He completed post-doctoral studies at University of Johannesburg.

Ralph worked as a Political Researcher with Institute for Democracy in South Africa (Idasa) where he focused on political, social and economic research. Ralph also worked as a Political Science Lecturer at the University of Western Cape. He has worked at the National Treasury (Ministry of Finance) in the Budget Office as a Senior Policy Analyst. Ralph regularly contributes content to local and international publications including The New York Times, Washington Post, and Financial Times, among others. He has written over 500 opinion articles over the years in various newspapers and magazines, both locally and internationally.

Ralph is the author of the books When Zuma Goes (Tafelberg, 2016) and Ramaphosa’s Turn (Tafelberg, 2018), The ANC ‘s last decade (Tafelberg, 2021). His next book The role of the judiciary in a historically divided society will be published by Jacana (2025). He is currently a senior expert at the Lichtenstein based Geopolitical Intelligence Services (GIS), where he contributes report focusing on trade, diplomacy and foreign relations focusing on the SADC region.

SAPS inquiry Ramaphosa’s ‘way to manage public rage’ – expert

Political analyst, Ralph Mathekga said the President shied away from taking decisive action after KZN Police Commissioner Mkhwanazi implicated Minister Mchunu in corruption within the police.

Ralph Mathekga | Ramaphosa’s Limpopo problem: Why he is choosing political survival