Let us remember real meaning of freedom
SOUTH Africa will observe Freedom Day on April 27 with the theme: Working Together to Build Unity and Prosperity for All.
In celebrating our 18 years of transition from apartheid to what is supposed to be an inclusive democracy, we need to question the dichotomies.
The liberation Struggle was fought collectively by all races and people aligned themselves towards a common, shared vision and democracy that appears to be fraying at the seams.
Sadly, it is evident that the elitists and their cronies have defined their own brand of freedom – borne out of greed, corruption, cronyism and fraud with the state coffers as an endless pot of gold.
All the illustrious mutterings of a free non-racial, equal and non-segregated democracy seem like dark clouds shrouding our horizon. What has changed? The poor are poorer while the rich are carving more niches for themselves.
Freedom and human rights should be for all human beings, ensuring that the violation of such rights be treated with contempt and/or as criminal conduct that needs sanction.
It is hoped that as our leaders celebrate this day, they pledge to alleviate poverty and create jobs that will enrich the quality of life of its citizens, identify national imperatives that echo the needs of the masses, the poor and communities crying out for effective service delivery and celebrate the role played by ordinary citizens who tirelessly fought the battles of liberation towards nation-building, social cohesion and peaceful coexistence.
We need commitment as South Africans to live and lead by example, ensuring that the values and principles enshrined in our constitution become a living reality in the development and empowerment of communities.
Our democracy and freedom must be maintained and strengthened for future generations and not be mere lipservice that negates what we have achieved thus far.
The potential of our rainbow nation must grow and prosper in an equitable environment free from the gremlins that make mockery of the true meaning of freedom and democracy. ASHWIN KUARJIT SINGH Durban