DEAR Editor,-
Having been involved in opposition politics since 1998 in the then DP under Tony Leon and although I have had fundamental ideological differences with the ANC and its leadership since the dawn of the new era in 1994, I always respected the office of elected leaders and office bearers.
That is what I understood under the term ‘multi-party democracy’ which is enshrined in our constitution. We are allowed to differ in our application, but as long as the end goal is to uplift all communities and enhance living conditions for all citizens of our country, we can debate the method of achieving that goal.
Unfortunately, under the (lack of) leadership of Jacob Zuma, it has become almost impossible to show that respect. Here we have a character that refuses to take responsibility for anything and constantly refers to the ‘collective’ decisions the ANC makes through its highest decision-making body, their NEC.
He refuses to respond to the public protector on findings in her report on the millions wasted on Nkandla and is evasive when answering questions in parliament. He constantly muddies the water when it comes to issues of the improper benefits derived from his involvement with Shabir Shaik (who is enjoying his parole on the golf course like the previous Commissioner of Police, Jackie Selebi).
He refuses to take responsibility for the ‘Guptagate’ embarrassment at Waterkloof Airbase, reads off his prepared (clearly written by his spin doctor) speeches without having a clue on the content and giggles at his own mistakes as he goes along. He fathers children with women younger than his own children from previous marriages – the list just goes on and on.
Under his watch, Julius Malema gained prominence as a youth leader of the ANC, called for the removal of Mbeki as president and declared that he was prepared to die for Zuma. While he was useful to Zuma, he was given free reign to embarrass the country in the eyes of the world. Once Zuma succeeded to the highest office in this country, he decided to pull the carpet from under the man who was prepared ‘to die for him’ because he became a liability.
The Good Book says you reap what you sow. The ANC Youth League became the EFF who are now embarrassing the whole country in parliament. The question is, how do you respect the office of the State President if the incumbent is hellbent on destroying it with his total lack of statesmanship? The next question is, when will the ANC leadership stand up and say – ‘Enough is enough, Jacob, you are embarrassing us and the country. It is time for you to answer to all charges levelled against you’.
For as long as they are silent and accept this state of affairs, every single ANC member must take collective responsibility for this individual because ANC branches nominate their leaders. It is the ANC delegates, at their elective conferences, that elected Jacob as their leader and it is the ANC leadership who decided to put his face on election posters.
It is your country and people that are suffering because of a lack of business confidence in South Africa. You are to blame for the lack of investment and loss of jobs. It is now up to you to do the right thing and recall your appointed president because he has failed you. Do it for your country, do it for your organisation, but do it now!
In five year’s time, Zuma will be retired and we will be rid of him. The question is, can South Africa afford another five years with him at the helm? The answer is a resounding no! It is up to the ANC to take that bold step. Use the parliament in a ‘vote of no confidence’ in the president. The DA and all the other opposition parties will support you. Show some courage and do the right thing – fire him!
DOUG RAWLINS
DA, Ugu South Constituency Chairman
