Lex Libertas Launch: New Institution for Viable Political Dispensation

Lex Libertas

Media Statement

16 May 2025

Announcement: Lex Libertas

A new institution focused on a viable political dispensation for the communities of South Africa

A new institution was launched on the evening of 15 May 2025 in Pretoria with the aim of actively working toward a more sustainable political dispensation for South Africa. Lex Libertas, which has until now operated in its preliminary format as the Pioneer Initiative, will function as a combination of a think tank and a pressure group. The institution aims to promote a political dispensation in which the communities of South Africa enjoy greater levels of self-governance.

Dr Ernst Roets, Executive Director of Lex Libertas, explained that the organisation has built strong relationships both within and beyond South Africa in recent months, and that there is growing support for the conclusion that the country’s political order needs reform.

“The crises we face daily in South Africa are not merely the result of the wrong person serving as president, or the wrong party winning an election,” Roets said. “These crises stem from deeper, systemic flaws.”

Lex Libertas’ vision statement is simple:

A viable political dispensation for the communities of South Africa.

According to Dr Roets, South Africa is not only geographically vast, but also extraordinarily rich in community diversity.

“Despite this diversity, the political system is, in practice, hyper-centralised, unaccountable, detached, and offers virtually no recognition — let alone protection — of community dynamics. It’s all well and good that the Constitution contains promises about accountable governance and guarantees checks and balances. In practice, however, the rights it contains are little more than a wish list, and the institutions that are supposed to hold government accountable have been almost entirely captured.”

He further explained that Lex Libertas will continuously publish research on alternative political models and encourage national and international dialogue on these ideas. At the same time, the organisation will apply strategic pressure for the decentralisation of the political order.

Lex Libertas is supported by voluntary contributions. Contributors can make once-off donations, or contribute on a monthly or annual basis. Dr Roets encouraged supporters to get involved and join as contributors.

Dr Ernst Roets \
Executive Director \
Lex Libertas (formerly known as the Pioneer Initiative) \
Email: ernst.roets@lexlibertas.org.za \
Website: lexlibertas.org.za