"While the Constitution and the government of South Africa promote freedom of expression, artists should ensure that they do not infringe on the rights of others, and that they build cohesion, dignity, and respect rather than undermine these imperatives."
This was the ANC's response to Zapiro's latest cartoon. ( http://www.zapiro.com/ )
Now, I will try to be measured and objective in my reply to this statement. I say try because it is going to be really difficult, because of the obviously lack of respect the ANC has shown us. Because the ANC prefers to sue, to pressure and even to threaten rather than enter into the debate honestly and with the well being of the people foremost in mind. Because certain members of the ruling party seem intent on the goal of self enrichment above all others. And obviously, no arrogantly so.
Some of the smallest municipalities in our country are spending copious amounts of money lining the pockets of German auto manufacturers, and they drive these monstrosities like a badge of honour. And even better if they can get a batallion of phycopaths to drive behind them, flashing their blue lights as if that gives them superpowers and waving their guns. And you talk of respect?
Dear ANC, do you even know what respect means anymore ? Do you know that it is EARNED, not awarded with a title. If the president or any other member of the ruling party wishes us to respect them, then they should probably do something to EARN it. Nuff said.
Dignity. Having education is to have dignity. To have knowledge. The ANC has shown again and again to be incompetent in this the greatest of tasks this country has. Freedom can never come without knowledge. The education of our children is by far our most urgent task. The only way this country can succeed is if we start to empower people. A lot of people. But, afterall, an ignorant populace is much easier to control. And to decieve.
The ANC uses these words: rights, cohesion, dignity and respect. They wave them around much like the finger of a politician I would rather forget. But do the ANC still know what these words mean? Do they understand what people in this country faught and died for? I fear not.
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