We have recently seen the resurgence of the #FeesMustFall movement in universities across South Africa.
Although they have not become as critical as the 2016 protests, it did not take us long to see the death of an innocent bystander.
So, I must ask, when advancing a struggle, what is the proper way?
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The general South African way is to stage a mass protest, which often leads to riots and, in some cases, looting.
In some instances we have seen peaceful protests, such as sit-in demonstrations.
I do believe that both are very effective in their own way.
However, I am of the belief that the former is often criticised as it is more likely to lead to a violent outbreak.
Mass protests are often diluted and lose value because of populism.
Whether it is in student politics or disgruntled members of a community, there is always that one person or organisation using the platform to advance their views and opinions in an effort to gain popularity.
If you have ever read Animal Farm, then you will understand.
But for those who haven’t, the animals of a particular farm overthrow the farmer (autocracy) and run the farm as their own, where all animals are equal (socialism).
However, by the end of the novel, the pigs who emerged as the leaders in the revolution, assume residency in the farm house and walk on their hind legs only.
This is a depiction of how the oppressed becomes the oppressor.
Greed and the need for self gratification is the driving force behind the populist mentality.
When the news cameras disappear, and the mass crowds disperse, one should ask themselves who they truly believe is on the side of the struggle.
Populism is not restricted to politicians, I believe it is a cancer that is spread rapidly through the use of social media.
A lot of social media ‘activists’ unite when there is a popular struggle to advance.
Trends such as Black Lives Matter have caused an international stir.
In South Africa we still struggle with racism, whether it be blatant, passive or institutionalised.
But what happens when an incident similar to the assault and death of George Floyd happens in South Africa?
Are we as loud about our own problems as a country, or are we more concerned about the populist influence of the United States of America?
To prove my point, ask yourself, if you know Bulelani Qolani?
If not, ask yourself why you know George Floyd and not him.
In July of last year, Qolani was dragged naked from his home by City of Cape Town law enforcement officers sent to demolish shacks at a site called eThembeni, near Empolweni, in Khayelitsha.
The video of him being dragged from the shack, filmed by Social Justice Coalition (SJC) activist Bonga Zamisa, was widely shared on social media.
However, there was no public outcry from the South African public.
No hashtags and no effort from the masses to hold anyone accountable for violating one man’s rights and dignity.
Maybe you are reading this and you didn’t know about Qolani.
So, ask yourself, what change will come from concerning yourself with western pop culture, when things in your own country are worse.
I’ll let that simmer.
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