Jacob Zuma must put his foot down
Jul 28, 2009
EDITOR—South Africa should draw lessons from the rest of Africa.<br>I read Paul Busharizi’s article on Saturday and must say it was a riveting read. His analysis of the country’s current efforts toward being ready for the World Cup as well as the p
EDITOR—South Africa should draw lessons from the rest of Africa.
I read Paul Busharizi’s article on Saturday and must say it was a riveting read.
His analysis of the country’s current efforts toward being ready for the World Cup as well as the people’s plight in light of the current economic downturn mirrors the sentiments of much of the press lately. I thought however, two salient issues from his observations stuck out like an oasis in the desert.
First, South Africa is a country trying to find that unnerving balance between economic growth and an equitable distribution of prosperity amongst its people, both black and white. (Yes, South Africa must recognise the contribution, and by extension, the legitimacy of its white population).
This is a battle that has long characterised most African countries (between races or tribes as the case may present itself) and unfortunately, we are yet to see an example that has straddled that thin line without complete economic upheaval or worse social unrest—Zimbabwe and Rwanda, for example.
Secondly, the question of entitlement does raise its ugly head. There has been in recent times a wave of xenophobia spreading through South Africa, fuelled by hunger and desperation, but in no small part fanned by some black ruling elite in that country.
The basic premise here being that because you are black, and not because you work hard, you should partake in the economic prosperity of the nation! I think such a position can only lead to disaster.
My opinion in this matter is that Jacob Zuma, the current leader of South Africa, must take a strong stance on these elite and their corrupt practices, as well as the unions that are fuelling these crises (much like Margaret Thatcher in the 80s’ Industrial Britain).
The rule of law must prevail regardless of race or indeed tribe, otherwise South Africa will go down the way of much of Africa. Incredible, yes indeed but Africa is filled with innumerable illustrations of spectacular falls from grace.
George Oriokot
goriokot@hotmail.com
I read Paul Busharizi’s article on Saturday and must say it was a riveting read.
His analysis of the country’s current efforts toward being ready for the World Cup as well as the people’s plight in light of the current economic downturn mirrors the sentiments of much of the press lately. I thought however, two salient issues from his observations stuck out like an oasis in the desert.
First, South Africa is a country trying to find that unnerving balance between economic growth and an equitable distribution of prosperity amongst its people, both black and white. (Yes, South Africa must recognise the contribution, and by extension, the legitimacy of its white population).
This is a battle that has long characterised most African countries (between races or tribes as the case may present itself) and unfortunately, we are yet to see an example that has straddled that thin line without complete economic upheaval or worse social unrest—Zimbabwe and Rwanda, for example.
Secondly, the question of entitlement does raise its ugly head. There has been in recent times a wave of xenophobia spreading through South Africa, fuelled by hunger and desperation, but in no small part fanned by some black ruling elite in that country.
The basic premise here being that because you are black, and not because you work hard, you should partake in the economic prosperity of the nation! I think such a position can only lead to disaster.
My opinion in this matter is that Jacob Zuma, the current leader of South Africa, must take a strong stance on these elite and their corrupt practices, as well as the unions that are fuelling these crises (much like Margaret Thatcher in the 80s’ Industrial Britain).
The rule of law must prevail regardless of race or indeed tribe, otherwise South Africa will go down the way of much of Africa. Incredible, yes indeed but Africa is filled with innumerable illustrations of spectacular falls from grace.
George Oriokot
goriokot@hotmail.com