Fort Hare name stays the same

THE post office has produced a set of stamps commemorating the centenary of the University of Fort Hare.

I have no doubt that you have readers who clamour for Rhodes University to change its name because it is said to be “redolent of imperialism or colonialism”.

Why no similar protest in regard to Fort Hare?

Its name is that of a fort erected to control the movement of the Xhosa nation on the Eastern Cape frontier and named after an acting Cape governor.

It could scarcely be more “colonial”.

Is the distinction between the two institutions that Rhodes University has achieved its stature and reputation by the efforts of Britons and white South Africans?

That it was, for some 90 years, perceived as “white”?

One stamp lists what one assumes are those regarded as great sons of Fort Hare.

It is headed by Robert Mugabe, who last week – to the universal joy and relief of the great body of Zimbabweans – was removed as president after amassing huge wealth, and destroying the economy and institutions of government.

How similar has the fate of South Africa been under the equally corrupt government of Zuma?

How long have we to wait for joyful dancing in our streets?