“Pass one pass all” spark to revolution

There is a saying: “The more things change, the more they remain the same.” This is indeed true in respect of the political situation in South Africa today. With Mandela’s vision and ideals together with Tutu’s Rainbow Nation concept we have been lulled into a false sense of liberation and expectations.

It is indeed the cornerstone of Mandela’s ideal and it is imperative to quote, analyse and follow this brave and famous Rivonia trial speech:

“During my lifetime I have dedicated myself to this struggle of the African people. I have fought against white domination and I have fought against black domination. I have cherished the ideal of a democratic and free society in which all persons live in harmony and with equal opportunities. It is an ideal which I hope to live for and to achieve. But if needs be, it is an ideal for which I am prepared to die.”

With the release of Nelson Mandela and his steering the country towards a so-called democratic state, the winning of the Rugby World Cup, the hosting of the 2010 Soccer World Cup, the Truth and Reconciliation Commission etc., we have been dreaming and expecting a fairy tale journey to the promised land, but all the time blinded by reality.

However nearly 21 years have passed like greased lightning and we ask the question “What has changed?”

We have moved from “job reservation” to “affirmative action”. From slums in the townships to slums in the city. From forced removals to xenophobic attacks and displacement. From the Citizen newspaper scandal of the apartheid regime to ANC led government contemplating a similar “His Master’s Voice” publication.

From the apartheid government’s cabinet protecting PW Botha and De Klerk to the ANC cabinet protecting J G Zuma.

From the Nats having their hands in the cookie jar to Armsgate, Travelgate and Nkandlagate and still to come the bigger and better “Nucleargate”. All to the detriment of the populace.

In my opinion the greatest mistake of the apartheid regime was “Bantu Education”. Today we have “Pass One Pass All” education. It took students to ignite the spark for a revolution. My guess is that history will repeat itself as students feel the neglect of the government in affording them quality education and as a consequence a non-existent job opportunity and a grim and bleak future.

The Revolution was not won but only suspended.

The future is in your hands so make the conscious choice and reclaim your future when presented with the opportunity to change your destiny.

The local government elections are around the corner and we must make a start to choose representatives with utmost care, it’s no use complaining after the elections.

We must take control of our destiny. Change and make a difference. It’s in our hands !

NAREN SINGH

KwaDukuza