Rédaction Africa Links 24 with William Gumede
Published on 2024-03-26 20:33:06
South Africa is facing a myriad of complex problems rooted in identity-based, ideology-based, color-based, and past-based politics. The current landscape is dominated by gangsters, populists, ideologues, and the corrupt, who are steering the country towards a dangerous path. Public discourse has become vulgar and self-interested, dismissing knowledge and education.
These leaders have hijacked struggle slogans and the country’s past for their own personal gain, promoting divisive ideologies under the guise of championing the people and transformation. They resort to scapegoating enemies and offering empty promises solely to secure power.
Their black-and-white thinking style keeps them from addressing the real issues such as corruption, mismanagement, and incompetence. By deflecting blame onto the past or silencing critics, they evade accountability for their actions.
The upcoming elections in May are crucial, as false leaders are scapegoating enemies and peddling failed ideologies that have brought misery to Africa. Competent and knowledgeable leaders who promote evidence-based policies are often overlooked in favor of populist figures who promise unrealistic solutions.
To prevent a complete societal breakdown, it is imperative to push out the violent, ignorant, and narrow-minded leaders from mainstream politics. Failure to do so will lead to economic collapse, infrastructure breakdown, and a tribalization of politics.
A new pragmatic center must emerge, aligning parties and leaders who support the Constitution, non-racialism, and entrepreneurship. Voting for extremist views will only exacerbate the state’s failures and deepen poverty and unemployment.
It is crucial to win the war of ideas against false leaders who prey on the vulnerable for votes. This entails a realignment of political parties and civil society organizations, focusing on evidence-based policies and racial inclusivity.
South Africa must strive for a stable economic and political environment amidst global uncertainties. A trillion-dollar economy can only be achieved with pragmatic leaders who prioritize economic growth and entrepreneurship over welfare and statism.
Honesty and inclusivity must be the pillars of a new centrist political order, governed in the interests of all South Africans. Building a bright future requires a focus on present realities rather than clinging to the past.
A pragmatic centrist approach, grounded in politics and governance, is essential for addressing the country’s challenges and moving towards a prosperous future. Embracing the Constitution, democracy, and inclusivity will pave the way for a more united and sustainable South Africa.
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