Our view: I find it offensive to blame Mandela for the country’s economic woes
What an eventful week it was last week when Zimbabwean president Robert Mugabe took a swipe at South Africa, saying it wasn't as free as it purports to be.
He claimed that at independence they sacrificed their economic freedom to their former rulers who still enjoy economic wealth.
Mugabe further stated that late icon, Nelson Mandela cared more about his personal freedom than his people
In retaliation, secretary general Gwede Mantashe hit back, saying Mugabe’s leadership has led to Zimbabwe’s economic collapse, hence the existence of economic exiles in South Africa.
To me, all the above facts are true on all sides, although I find it offensive to blame Mandela for the country’s economic woes – he negotiated with a team from the ANC and other political formations. So, if Mugabe is talking about him as the sole person who sold out the country to former oppressors, it is the collective leadership that negotiated the freedom of South Africa.
There was also the issue of the announcement of Nkosazana Dlamini-Zuma’s swearing in as a member of parliament. This has sparked speculation of an imminent cabinet reshuffle that may see her strengthening her presidential campaign for the ANC I just wonder who will be the fall guy.
On the same note, Mpumalanga enhanced its unification trail when it swore in SACP secretary general Bonakele Majuba as a member of the provincial legislature last Friday.
Indeed they have said that they walk the talk.
