‘Political vultures’ fail to uphold legacy of Madiba

WHEN former President Nelson Mandela died three years ago, there was a leadership vacuum that has since been occupied by “political vultures”.

This was the general message delivered by speakers at the third anniversary of the former statesman’s passing in Mthatha yesterday.

They said his successors cared only about amassing personal wealth, rather than serving the people who elected them.

Speakers at the event, who included Eastern Cape premier Phumulo Masualle, called on the current leadership to pick up the baton and carry on where Madiba left off.

The event to commemorate Madiba’s death was held at the Nelson Mandela Museum at the Bhunga Building.

Streets around the museum were cordoned off to prepare for the dignitaries that attended, which included chief Patekile Holomisa, roads and public works MEC Thandiswa Marawu, Thembu acting King Azenathi Dalindyebo and various other traditional leaders.

Professor Bheki Mngomezulu pulled no punches, saying the country no longer had innocent politicians but political vultures, none of whom had respect for structures and processes.

“Madiba would not be happy. It was his integrity that brought us here. Treacherous and deceptive leadership will only destroy his legacy. We have leaders who are egocentric and only focussed on amassing wealth for themselves,” said Mngomezulu.

Political analyst Professor Somadoda Fikeni said although the country was not where it used to be, it was still not where it should be.

He said it was not just up to leaders in government to uphold Madiba’s legacy and teachings but up to each and every individual.

“Mandela was an ordinary person. The moment we fail his dream is when we say we are waiting for President [Jacob] Zuma to fix this or for the premier to fix that.

“The government alone cannot realise the dreams that Mandela had for the country,” said Fikeni.

He said even in an era of posttruth leadership, populism and the rise of right wing movements, many still cited Mandela as a source of inspiration.

“Mandela’s leadership was distinguished because he did not have an honesty, courage and compassion deficit,” he said.

Masualle led the lighting of 95 candles, which represent the life and times of Mandela.

One of Mandela’s grandchildren, Ndaba Mandela, gave a heartfelt speech in which he said as a family they continually strove to uphold his grandfather’s memory, as well as his legacy and his life.

“He was the most revered leader in the world.

“He stood for freedom and justice and dedicated his life to serving people.

“This day still brings some sadness but as his grandchildren we can only strive to reconnect ourselves with what he stood for,” said Ndaba.

The premier echoed speakers at the event held under the theme World of Nelson Mandela’s Dream: Introspection and Reflection, and added that the country was going through a difficult patch.

“Madiba embodied unity and championed human rights throughout his life. We have indeed not gone anywhere since his time because we face a challenge of unity,” said Masualle. —