New ANC leader needed

YEARS AGO, Julius Malema, Gwede Mantashe, Zwelinzima Vavi and others told us former-president Thabo Mbeki was a dictator and was bullying thendeputy president Jacob Zuma.

After the Zunami (being overcome by Zuma), Mbeki and allies, including ex-Western Cape premier Ebrahim Rasool entered a political wilderness. I was a student of both politicians.

Importantly, Mbeki knew that to halt war, misery and the exodus of refugees on the African continent, peace was vital and toured extensively to create it. At home, Mantashe, Malema, Vavi and others used this time to weaken Mbeki.

Today, after great damage by this pro-Zuma faction, Vavi treads the political wilderness, Malema apologises to Mbeki at every turn and Mantashe suspects former comrades of being counter-revolutionaries and possibly American agents. History confirms the US political establishment as cruel, having few principles and uncaring if millions suffer or die to maintain hegemony.

The point is Mantashe could be right in wondering if the US could be stirring the #ZumaMustFall or #FeesMustFall events. Unfortunately there remain unavoidable truths.

Malema may be an offensive political opportunist, but President Zuma is a deeply flawed leader. Our taxes paid for Nkandla and will pay for his new jet. Student fees are too costly as millions exist in poverty. Blaming the US will not solve our problem.

Leadership now demands taking charge, displaying skills and solving problems. We then neutralise those who feed on the notion of African ineptitude.

The relentless infighting in the ANC is also worrisome. Stability of our country depends on stability of the ANC whether opposition politicians like it or not. The ANC as a broad church must remain mainstream which is why a person like Lindiwe Sisulu is necessary as a national presidential consideration.