The April/May edition of Amandla! Magazine is now available in bookshops across South Africa.

The issue focuses on two major issues confronting progressives and left activists: the up-coming local government elections and the revolutions in North Africa and the Middle East.

With the collapse of so many of our municipalities, the crisis of provision of basic services, rampant corruption and conflict in the ANC over election lists, doubts exist as to who to vote for or if one should vote at all! Amandla covers the crisis facing local government and gives space to young voices from powerful movements such as the Young Communist League, the Unemployed People's Movement and the Abahlali baseMjondolo on how they see the local government elections.

The revolutions in North Africa and the Middle East have inspired millions around the world including in other parts of Africa, Europe and even the United States. We hear authentic voices from activists inside these revolutions who provide insights into what is taking place as well as providing an overview of the prospects for radical change in these relatively closed societties. To read Nawal El Saadawi's account of how women have thrown off the chains of conservatism and entered the terrain of struggle and politics is truly inspirational. Fathi Chamkhi gives us an analysis of the on-going revolutionary processes in Tunisia and Irish socialist Helena Sheehan provides an on the spot account of the rupture in Libya. All those interested in the Palestinian struggle will find John Rose's, (author of the Myths of Zionism) account of the impact of the Middle East revolts on the possibilities for Palestinian liberation fascinating.

Other exciting articles in this issue of Amandla include an intriguing interview with award winning writer, poet and philosopher Breyten Breytenbach, an exposure of profiteering in the building industry and the politics behind the crisis of acid mine drainage.

Amandla can be obtained by subscription for just R120 per year or purchased from most leading book sellers.

For more information contact Feroza Phillips on 0214475770 or email [email][email protected] For more visit