Rogue Spying

Analyses persistent rogue intelligence practices in post-apartheid South Africa, situating them within global security dynamics and exploring pathways to accountability through advocacy, journalism and the law.

Drawing on exclusive interviews, declassified documents, and the author’s intrepid activism, this account reveals how whistleblowers, journalists, and counsel have fought for accountability in the state intelligence sector that has been weaponised to spy on political rivals, the media and civil society.

In South Africa's democracy, the civilian intelligence agency's power has been weaponized to spy on political rivals, the media and civil society, while oversight institutions largely falter. As inquiries into Jacob Zuma's presidency opened doors for intelligence reform, Cyril Ramaphosa's administration has, at important moments, offered superficial fixes, entrenching state cont