TRUTH IN FOCUS
Corruption: A Reality South Africans Know All Too Well
From state capture to everyday injustice, corruption has left deep scars across our society. These six compelling books — a mix of bold new releases and enduring classics — shine a light on the truth, unpacking the systems, stories, and scandals that have shaped our nation.
Whether you’re seeking insight, accountability, or simply the facts, these titles offer a powerful lens into the fight for transparency and justice in South Africa.
Mafia Land by Kyle Cowan
“Mafia Land” exposes South Africa’s descent into a mafia state, where crime syndicates and government structures blur into one corrupt system. Kyle Cowan unpacks twelve ruthless cartels—from the taxi mafia to the police mafia—revealing how deep-rooted patronage and violence fuel a nation’s silent war.
The Dark Prince by Pieter du Toit
“The Dark Prince” offers a piercing look into Paul Mashatile’s rise through the ANC ranks, navigating scandal, factionalism, and power struggles to reach the doorstep of the presidency. Pieter du Toit’s investigative biography questions Mashatile’s ties to the ‘Alex Mafia,’ his lavish lifestyle, and whether he’s fit to lead South Africa’s future.
The Shadow State by Jeff Wicks
“The Shadow State” is a gripping investigation into the assassination of whistleblower Babita Deokaran, exposing a web of corruption, criminal syndicates, and political complicity in South Africa’s public health sector. Jeff Wicks follows the trail Babita left behind, revealing how billions meant for patients were siphoned off—and why speaking out came at the ultimate cost.
Malema by Micah Reddy & Pauli van Wyk
Money. Power. Patronage.
Revealing how Julius Malema leveraged political influence to build a personal empire, bankrolling his party while enriching himself through scandal and state resources. Micah Reddy and Pauli van Wyk expose the flow of money through South African politics, tracing VBS loot, metro deals, and the exploitation of inequality for personal gain—a stark warning for democracy.
Truth to Power by André de Ruyter
“Truth to Power” is André de Ruyter’s explosive account of his three years as Eskom CEO, revealing how corruption, sabotage, and political interference crippled South Africa’s power utility. From fake fuel deliveries to cartel infiltration, De Ruyter exposes the dark forces behind load-shedding—and the high personal cost of speaking out.
The ANC Billionaires by Pieter du Toit
“The ANC Billionaires” reveals how South Africa’s liberation movement became entangled with big business, resulting in a politically connected elite enriched through strategic empowerment deals. Pieter du Toit traces the roots of this alliance back to a secret 1985 meeting in Zambia, revealing how capital shaped post-apartheid policy—and who profited most.
Expose the rot. Empower your mind.
Swing by your nearest Bargain Books to grab one—or all—of these explosive reads that shine a light on corruption in South Africa. From whistleblower accounts to political exposés, these titles are more than just page-turners—they’re truth-tellers.
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