A recipe for conflict

ALL groups in South Africa seek reconciliation, cooperation and peace. True reconciliation, however, represents a win-win situation between all groups.

After 21 years, April 27 has come to mean the victory of one group over another. This is a recipe for conflict and not for reconciliation.

If public holidays such as Freedom Day (April 27); Youth Day (June 16) and Human Rights Day (March 21) are continually used in the speeches of leaders to talk only about the past and to set up black people against white people anew, we are not making any progress. No wonder that the free-born generation, who were raised on these speeches, storm statues and occupy land and believe it will resolve the problems they experience every day.

More messages about the future and appreciation for the contribution that both white and black people made in the past to make South Africa an economic giant in Africa will help to counter this current negative polarisation.

It will also implement the preamble to the South African constitution, which demands respect for “those who had worked to build and develop our country”.

South Africa has experienced four bad weeks as far as good relations and nation building are concerned. Attitudes and good relations that have been built up over the past 21 years have suffered serious damage in the past four weeks through populist politics.

Populist politics where historical symbols, which hold great value for one group, were damaged and defaced by another group and by leaders, who through their irresponsible comments, caused xenophobia.

South Africa is a country with tremendous potential and talent. If it is utilised correctly, we will create room for all the residents in the country and the different communities to live together prosperously and in peace and harmony.

If political populism, selfishness, self-enrichment and corruption, however, get the upper hand, we will be going the way of many other failed states. Dr Pieter Mulder

FF Plus Leader