Yesterday I was asked what was wrong with the DA by a very angry young man. OK I assume he was a young man. This got me thinking, It seems that some are concerned about Agang taking away the DA's demographic, The DA voter.
While this is true, Agang may do just that I believe that Agang can be either a game changer or a damp squib. This is entirely up to the leadership.
In my article yesterday, http://www.news24.com/MyNews24/Open-Letter-to-Mamphele-and-Agang-20130219, An open letter to Mamphele and Agang I asked a number of questions that could sway my interest in becoming a part of that political movement. Unlike many I no longer just jump in with both feet and hope the details will sort themselves out, I need some clarity.
The only hope that Agang has of becoming a Game Changer is to build up grass roots support and constituents. Much of what Agang is preaching is already being done by the DA and other parties that have no real impact because they are overwhelmed by the numbers in the governing party. Why would anyone move away from the DA, known and trusted by many to an unknown and untested party, It is my contention that few will, those that will have never been truly at home with the DA.
The reason Agang has a chance is because the DA has baggage that can be unfairly used, There is no reason to believe allegations of White Supremacy, Pandering to white interests and more as levelled by the ANC cronies but the fact is that the DA has it's roots in a Party that contested elections during apartheid. Every single person that has real knowledge is aware that The DP was opposition and argued against apartheid policies, some of the current leadership is known to have "Struggle Credentials" and yet they are being beaten by liars and propagandists warning illiterate voters that if the DA wins, there will be a return to Apartheid, when in fact we have never left apartheid behind with the ANC.
All this baggage that the DA has will mean that a maximum level of support will be reached among the current voters. The masses will support those that freed them from slavery as long as there in no real alternative. Agang can be that alternative, Dr Ramphele has struggle credentials, cannot be accused of being an Apartheid sympathiser or be accused of wanting to return to the "glory days" of Apartheid.
Her credentials are good, She has spoken up against the rot, was courted by the DA and found it wanting even though they have very similar goals and desires for the country. If Dr Ramphele can attract a good team of people dedicated to stomping out the rot, building the nation and not on a power trip, Agang can be a game changer.
If not, not much unlike COPE and the UDM it will be just another damp squib and a power play with people who only have their own interests at heart. Dr Ramphele please tell us which it will be.
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