Constitutional Development in South Africa and the Role of the Namibian Constitutional Model

South Africa and Namibia share a similar heritage as ethnically and racially pluralistic societies with a white minority exercising complete political and economic control over a black majority. In 1990, after gaining independence from South Africa, Namibia adopted a progressive, democratic constitution. In South Africa, negotiations are currently underway to end years of white rule and formulate a new constitution extending full political rights to all citizens. This Note examines the salient features of the Namibian Constitution. The Note also discusses the various proposals for a South African Constitution, with particular emphasis on electoral laws and the structure and power of the legislature. Finally, the Note discusses the extent to which the Namibian Constitution might serve as a potential model for a new South African constitution