I am terminating my membership of the ANC

Since 1976, I have fought for this country in every way that I could, writes Rudene Gerber

My fellow South Africans, today is a very sad day for me. Since 1976, when my eyes were opened, I have fought for this country in every way that I possibly could.

I joined the ANC just after Comrade Hani was shot. I have read about and followed the lives of legends in the struggle and always been proud of my party and my country.

Today I will resign from the ANC. It might not seem much, but I am not alone. More and more of us have watched and waited for the leadership to act.

When Jacob Zuma took over, his agenda was clear. He did not believe in the Freedom Charter, in the mission statements of the ANC, in the welfare of the people.

His greed and corrupt nature was evident from the beginning. Yet he was left to do what he wanted, no matter the cost to our country and its people.

The poor were discarded. In fact, the poor are worse off than before. It was of no concern to Zuma that welfare payouts were in danger of not being paid.

Last year’s election loss was not enough to wake the leaders. There was a stir but not much more.

Ministers who under-perform are kept and those who perform but don’t agree with the president’s agenda are fired.

This has been going on for too long.

I am now 55 years old, but I will march on Friday again like before 1992, – as a South African and not as an ANC member.