Part 1/9:
The Dawn of Independence for Bophuthatswana: A Complex Reality
The recent declaration of independence for Bophuthatswana, South Africa's second self-proclaimed homeland, has been heralded by a ceremonial display marked by the firing of 101 guns. However, the event, attended solely by South African President Dr. Nico Dedis and local leader Chief Lucas Mangope, was largely ignored by the international community. Many outside observers view Bophuthatswana's newfound independence as superficial, a mere facade of autonomy that masks a deep economic and political reliance on South Africa.