Former presidents in national dialogue drive

THREE former presidents have started a national dialogue.

They are supported by many other prominent leaders and foundations. It seems the sole purpose of this venture is to save South Africa from the mess it is in.

If freedom fighters such as Nelson Mandela and Ahmed Kathrada were alive, surely they would be standing with Thabo Mbeki, Kgalema Motlanthe and FW de Klerk to give support.

Although many resent the inclusion of De Klerk as part of this initiative, they seem to forget he was a Nobel Peace Prize laureate together with our Madiba.

Many also seem to forget De Klerk was responsible for the referendum in March 1992 in which at least 70% of whites voted yes to abolish apartheid. He was also responsible for unbanning underground parties like the ANC and freeing political prisoners.

How quickly we seem to forget the past that avoided a bloodbath. It seems all the country’s woes rest on the shoulders of one man and his cronies.

When Cosatu and the SACP asked the president to step down, he should have heeded the call.

It will take a long time to recover from the destruction wrought by corruption, which mainly affects the poorest.

It is obvious that most South Africans are gatvol of all the shenanigans.

Let us hope those fighting the misdeeds win the battle.

VIJAY SEWTAHAL Clare Estate