Democrazy explores what democracy is and should be

Democrazy is a four-part documentary that investigates democracy in South Africa showing the mosaic of various parts of the country. Using humour, the content is led by, and follows two presenters, Masello Motana and Shimmy Isaac, with their alter ego characters, Lizzy ‘Special’ Molomo and Danny Le Kay who explore what democracy is and should be.

Surekha Singh, commissioning editor at SABC says “Lizzy is a successful businesswoman who wants to move into politics with her own party, The Helmet Party of Africa.  It’s her way of participating in democracy; ‘if you want to fix something, do it yourself’ is Lizzy’s motto. Lizzy has business interests in a salon and carwash.  Her journey of investigation into what makes a successful political party eventually sees her arrival in parliament to prepare for the seat she one day wants to occupy”.

“Danny Le Ka is a man of the people; a mechanic who believes that local is lekker and that change starts in local government. He sets out to find out what makes a good ward councillor and on his journey learns a little bit more about the challenges facing government at local level.  His mission is exploring and sharing how communities can hold their ward councillors responsible and accountable” ends Surekha.

 Democrazy will air on SABC 2 Sundays at 21h00 starting 20 January 2013 for four weeks.  The series will also be accompanied by a radio series across SABC public broadcast stations.  Democrazy is primarily about developing ways for people to communicate debate and discuss their differences. The show illustrates the many ways people can make their voices heard; from stand-up comedy to formal lekgotla’s Democrazy asks viewers to engage in discussion.

Zandile Nkonyeni publicity manager at SABC 2 says “the series shares information about voting trends, habits and systems, the electoral process, the importance of free and fair elections, and the internationally recognised commission we have in South Africa.  Democrazy captures a snapshot of how much or how little ordinary South Africans know or want to know about making democracy work.  Through the series we want to inspire audiences to keep democracy alive and vibrant”.

Democrazy emanates from the multiyear contract between SABC Education and the Electoral Commission as part of an ongoing civic and democracy education multimedia campaign.  The series is produced by Grounded Media. 

For further details, email faheylk@sabc.co.za