Liberation and Corruption

Honest and credible about both the successes and the failings of liberation leaders.’ - Mavuso Msimang Deputy President of ANC Veterans and former ANC Underground. Why are liberation and independence movements often betrayed when their leaders get into government? This question has haunted Peter Hain for decades. A lifelong activist and politician, Hain has over 50 years’ experience of battling corruption, from his early days as a freedom fighter against apartheid to his time as a UK Labour MP, cabinet minister, and sitting member of the House of Lords. He offers a gripping exploration of why movements born from the ideals of justice and freedom often succumb to bad governance and corruption once in power. Combining rigorous analysis with well-sourced evidence, this book examines global examples ranging from Africa to Latin America, Russia, the Caribbean, China and India. With the unique perspective of having navigated both the streets of protest and the corridors of power, Hain reflects on the challenges of staying true to the values of liberation struggles while confronting their disappointing outcomes. Thought-provoking and accessible, this book is an essential read for anyone engaged in the fight for a better world.

Lord Peter Hain served as MP for Neath (1991-2015) and held senior roles in the UK Labour Government for 12 years, including seven in the Cabinet. A key negotiator of the 2007 Northern Ireland settlement, he also served as Foreign Minister for Africa, the Middle East and Europe, chaired the UN Security Council and brokered international treaties. He is the author of 27 books, including Back to the Future of Socialism (2015), Mandela: His Essential Life (2018), and the memoir A Pretoria Boy (2021).