Rédaction Africa Links 24 with Marianne Thamm
Published on 2024-03-09 19:23:04
The global political landscape is littered with shattered careers, lives, and reputations, all due to blind loyalty and corruption. Former president Jacob Zuma’s reign of kleptocracy has claimed another casualty in John Hlophe, the first Judge President in democratic South Africa to be impeached for gross misconduct after trying to influence Constitutional Court justices in 2008. This is just one example of the trend towards “electoral autocracy” seen in countries like the US, Russia, Mexico, Brazil, the Philippines, and Argentina.
Zuma’s toxic influence has destroyed the careers of many individuals who aligned themselves with him, leaving them to languish without hope of redemption. Whistle-blowers targeted by Zuma’s minions have faced threats, violence, and even death, while those in the private sector who dared to speak out have seen their reputations tarnished.
The ANC itself is not immune to the corruption and abuse of power that has characterized Zuma’s era. Several members implicated in State Capture continue to be active in the party, drawing attention to the ongoing struggle within the ANC to uphold integrity and accountability.
The legacy of individuals like Hlophe and Busisiwe Mkhwebane, former Public Protector, serves as a cautionary tale of how collusion with corrupt leaders can undermine a democracy. Despite their protestations of innocence, the damage they have inflicted on the system will not be easily erased.
Key institutions in South Africa, from the National Prosecuting Authority to the judiciary, have been hollowed out and weakened by Zuma’s influence. Former officials like Tom Moyane, Dudu Myeni, and Brian Molefe have faced legal challenges, financial penalties, and reputational damage as a result of their involvement in corrupt schemes.
Zuma’s personal life has also been marked by turmoil, with wives and partners falling out of favor as his fortunes decline. Accusations of poisoning, betrayal, and financial disputes have marred his relationships, leaving a trail of broken hearts and shattered lives.
In the midst of this tumult, the global community faces a crucial moment in history where the choice between self-serving venality and common humanity hangs in the balance. As countries around the world head to the polls, the fate of democracy and accountability will be decided by the collective actions of citizens and leaders alike.
The lessons of Zuma’s reign serve as a stark warning of the dangers of unchecked power and the need for vigilance in upholding democratic values. Only by learning from the mistakes of the past can we hope to build a more just and equitable future for all.
Read the original article on Daily Maverick
