BEE hypocrisy: SRF poll shows 70% believe SA race-based laws enacted to enrich politically connected

South Africa’s Social Research Foundation (SRF) reveals a striking disconnect between government policy and public opinion. Despite the ANC doubling down on BEE and affirmative action, SRF’s latest survey shows the majority of South Africans - across all racial groups - believe these policies benefit the politically connected, not the poor. Gabriel Makin explains how the public favours merit, individualism, and minimal state interference in business. The data points to growing disillusionment with racial nationalism and demand for equal treatment under the law.