A vibrant and vigilant civil society, not political parties, is the greatest asset to democracy, writes Fikile-Ntsikelelo Moya.
It is hard to quantify just how big the sector is globally. However, one study says that NGOs across 40 countries represent $2.2 trillion in operating expenditures.
Judith February says citizen action and civil society organisations are needed now more than ever to systematically hold government to account.
Thousands of people are expected to gather at the Treasury in Church Square at 10am on Friday before marching to the Union Buildings at about midday.
Some protesters have demanded that Interior Minister, Joseph Nkaissery, resigns.
Calls have gone out to members of society today, to join this campaign for the removal of President Zuma.
An alliance has been formed comprising NGOs, churches, trade unions & academic organisations.
Society groups and trade unions plan to march to the Union Buildings in Pretoria on 19 August.
Sisonke Msimang says the civil society landscape is in need of a revamp.
Civil society groups are unhappy with the Traditional Courts Bill, calling for it to be scrapped.
