THE RISE OF ZUMA – THE FALL OF A COUNTRY’S HOPE: MANDELA’S BIG MISTAKE

Madiba has publically shown his support for the ANC and Jacob Zuma this weekend at an ANC rally in Idutywa “We were all caught by surprise when we heard he was attending” stated a high-ranking ANC member “it was a scoop for Zuma.” Having the high profile, much-respected ex-President of South Africa behind him will boost Jacob Zuma’s image. It has also ensured South Africa of where Mandela stands – behind the ANC.

This is the first time Madiba has appeared for the ANC during the pre-election build up. Last week in East London a pre-recorded message of his voice was used instead, as Mandela was not in attendance. It is also a surprising act due to Mandela’s recent statement informing the ANC that he had “chosen not to become involved in those or other political matters.” However – it would seem that he has had a change of heart, or was somehow convinced in the private meeting called by Jacob Zuma prior to the rally.

Zuma capitalized on the influential visit and reminded the voting public of Mandela’s affiliation with the ANC. “He lead the militants that formed the ANC Youth League and was there when the PAC left the party,” Zuma shouted to thousands of enamored South Africans. “When you talk of the ANC, you talk of people like Madiba.” He continued, “he is a hero among heroes.”

This bold statement left a burning sensation somewhere deep inside my gut. A hero – yes. Among heroes? Hardly. The ANC has been constantly hounded by accusations of bribery, fraud, corruption, mismanagement of funds and even more serious criminal charges of rape, theft and murder. In my knowledge of stereotypical heroism there is no trace of any of this treachery. I believe that Mandela placing his support behind controversial and frightening Jacob Zuma was a shockingly big mistake that will have devastating consequences. Voters who may have supported COPE see Madiba as we all do – a man who’s choices and advice can be trusted – and therefore may swing back towards the ANC.

The latest Niehaus debacle only amplifies the sordid reputation of our current Government. It seems that under the ANC not even the pinnacle of moral sturdiness – a judge - can be trusted.

However there is hope. The Pretoria High Court ruled that registered voters living abroad should be allowed to vote. The ruling is however subject to confirmation by the Constitutional Court which is happening this week. This will not be enough to make an intense difference and the majority of South Africans still appear to be right behind the ANC.

“We will vote for ANC because they brought us out of Apartheid.” Explains Rosie, a domestic worker. “I will never vote for anyone else.” This captures the prevalent attitude and opinion of many South Africans. They sadly cannot put the past behind them and their votes depend not on current affairs – but rather on the begrudged history.

In closing I would like to share with you a few lines from ANC President Jacob Zuma’s latest letter to the pubic – followed by his signature… :

“Our democracy is solid and our nation is in a good state. There is a tendency to forget to celebrate the wonderful achievements of the last 15 years.”

“All in all, our government and our country are in good shape.”

There have been countless corruption charges against Government this year. The ANC has split. There have been the Zuma rape trials ‘miraculous’ postponement. We are experiencing the worst cholera outbreak in 20 years and it is only getting worse – so far 15 people have died. We have just emerged from xenophobic violence that scarred our nation. Our water system is deteriorating at a rapid rate and is no longer one of the cleanest in the world. Mbeki was ousted – and replaced by a President none of us know, in a manner quite unconstitutional. Our neighboring country is in turmoil and our Government has done little to help the people or stand up against the tyrant President Robert Mugabe. Our national airline, SAA, is gulping down funds and is being buoyed by taxpayers money.

This is just the tip of the iceberg. Our country and our Government are not “in good shape” and our nation is not “in a good state.” Poverty and crime are still rife and our people are unhappy. Promises made by the ANC hang unfulfilled in the air and yet it would seem that loyalty comes before all logic.

22 April is when the nation will gather to vote. Make sure your voice is heard.