Across Southern Africa, a growing number of researchers point to a shift in leadership away from the selfless, service-driven ethos that defined the liberation struggle. The first generation of leaders were often guided by an emotional commitment to humanity, grounded in sacrifice and collective freedom. But many argue that those who followed have, at times, embraced a more opportunistic style of politics focused on personal power, wealth, and influence. But the post-liberation era is fundamentally different. Today’s leaders are not confronting a single, visible enemy like apartheid. Instead, they must navigate complex realities, economic inequality, global markets, internal party dynamics, and the everyday demands of governance. In that shift, moral clarity can blur, and space for opportunism can emerge. So, what kind of leadership do these times call for? And more importantly, what systems, accountability, and civic culture are needed to cultivate truly selfless leaders today? We are in conversation with Political Analyst, Sandile Swana.