The Arms Deal in Your Pocket

by Paul Holden

The Arms Deal in Your Pocket is a detailed analysis of why and how the arms deal has become the poisoned well of South African politics. The plethora of newspaper articles, court cases, conspiracy theories and counter-allegations surrounding the deal still leaves many scratching their heads. This book aims to clear the confusion. It starts at the roots and works its way to the present, telling the story in the simplest way possible. From what was bought, why it was bought, and what it cost: all of these are explained in a book that can be read within a day.

Genres: Africa, Politics

376 pages, Paperback

First published September 15, 2009

About the author

Paul Holden is an investigative journalist and author with 15 years experience investigating corruption. He was senior researcher on the book and documentarry Shadow World: Inside the Global Arms Trade. His book, The Fraud: Keir Starmer, Labour Together and the Crisis of British Democracy was published by OR Books in November 2025.

Reviews

[Lyndon · Rating 4 out of 5]

Very good description of the arms deal. Succinct filled with detailed facts. Provides a great insight into what is known about the deal, the players involved, the facts and allegations.
This deal is such a big part of sa politics I recommend this book to anyone interested in sa politics or current affairs

[Will · Rating 4 out of 5]

A great overview of what happened in South Africa's ongoing corruption scandal. A must-read for anyone interested in current South African politics, especially with recent events like the medical parole of Schabir Schaik and the dropping of charges against Jacob Zuma. Clear and factually written.

[Vanessa · Rating 4 out of 5]

Given the intricacies of the Arms Deal in South Africa, it was refreshing to read a potted view. Some things had been forgotten as the it has been both under-reported, under-analysed,over-reported and hyped beyond belief.

[Barend · Rating 4 out of 5]

Nice overview with sufficient detail, a must read for all South Africans to be informed about their political "leaders".