POLOKWANE – Freedom of expression is the most powerful genetic embodiment of any democratic society. All citizens are enjoined with a natural right to express their viewpoints. Plurality of thoughts and diversity of thinking is preciously imperative for any democratic society.
However, there are some vindictive trolls on social media who prefer to spew venom and vulgarity at other notable persons. The country’s most celebrated philanthropist and billionaire, Patrice Motsepe is currently being vilified on social media for his comments to US President, Donald Trump.
On Friday, whilst seated next to Trump at the World Economic Forum in Switzerland, Motsepe joyfully professed to Trump:
“All we wanted to say is that Africa loves America, Africa loves you. We want America to do well, we want you to do well and the success of America is the success of the world.”
These friendly words of well wishes from Motsepe had ignited the volcanic fury of many social media fanatics. Seething with incinerating anger, the social media brigade furiously charged:
“How dare Motsepe say ‘Africa loves Donald Trump’? Who elected Motsepe to speak on our behalf as Africans?”
These two unintelligent questions are bizarrely moronic at best and unwittingly puerile at worst. Motsepe has every right to express his opinions on any matter. He does not need any election or political mandate to express his democratic viewpoints.
It is foolish to argue that a person must first be elected before he can express his personal opinions. Personally, I also love America and Donald Trump although I strongly disagree with Trump’s presidential excesses. It is possible to love a person while simultaneously disagreeing with his actions.
There are many Africans who love America, inasmuch as there are many Americans who love Africa. Why must we condemn Motsepe for expressing his democratic views on America and Trump? Motsepe, just like all citizens, is enjoined with a right to freedom of expression.
We must never allow the vengeful fanatics on social media to control our modes of thinking. Motsepe must never apologise for expressing his genuine democratic opinions. We must not allow the autocratic control-freaks on social media, to muzzle our right to freedom of expression. As long as I live, I will never apologise for expressing a genuine democratic opinion. NEVER.
