Rough justice: Is it because he's Black?
Image: irfanview
Our legal system appears to be heavily skewed in favour of white males.
On January 11, 2013, Oscar Pistorius fired a gun under a table in a crowded restaurant in Johannesburg’s Melrose Arch, and the bullet grazed Kevin Lerena. He was reportedly fined R20 000. A month later, he killed his girlfriend, yet his jail sentence amounted to less than nine years behind bars.
Could someone please explain why Julius Malema is facing what appears to be a disproportionate sentence, given that the bullet he fired did not harm anyone? | Elma Ross Cape Town
The recent expulsion of Mbali Shinga from the National Freedom Party (NFP) highlights the extent to which politics in South Africa have become tainted by greed and power struggles.
This is not merely about ideological differences or policy disagreements. It appears to be a calculated move by the current NFP leadership to consolidate power and suppress dissent. At the centre of this storm is the party president, whose leadership is increasingly associated with a relentless pursuit of authority. The expulsion of Shinga seems less about unity or discipline and more about controlling the narrative and silencing opposing voices.
The broader political context makes this even more concerning. There are claims of a pact between the NFP leadership and the Umkhonto weSizwe Party (MKP), led by former president Jacob Zuma. This alleged alliance, reportedly tied to ambitions of securing a premiership, suggests a shift towards factionalism and self-interest at the expense of democratic principles.
Tensions escalated when Shinga opposed a motion of no confidence in KwaZulu-Natal Premier Thami Ntuli. Her stance was based on the belief that his removal would destabilise the province rather than serve its people. She supported maintaining a Government of Provincial Unity, arguing that cooperation is essential for stability. This position, however, put her at odds with a more partisan agenda and ultimately led to her marginalisation.
The emerging coalition between the Economic Freedom Fighters (EFF) and the MKP in KwaZulu-Natal raises further concerns. This alliance appears less rooted in shared values and more in a fragile arrangement driven by political ambition. Such developments risk undermining efforts to address pressing issues such as corruption, unemployment, inequality and social instability.
South Africa’s political future is increasingly shaped by power struggles rather than public service. The expulsion of Shinga is a reminder of how dissent is often suppressed in favour of control. If leaders continue to prioritise personal ambition over the needs of citizens, the country risks deeper division and instability.
South Africans must remain vigilant and demand accountability. Only by putting the interests of the people first can we build a more just, inclusive and stable future. | Thulani Dasa Khayelitsha
DAILY NEWS