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Bush's visit - you said...
04/07/2003 14:31 - (SA)
Cape Town - News24 has been inundated with e-mails after asking for your views on United States President George Bush's pending visit to South Africa.
The tally has worked out about 50-50 in favour of and against his visit, and some users say he is welcome ... provided A, B or C.
Points made in the "against" camp ranged from Iraq, rules applying to different countries and even fear of invasion of South Africa and other African countries for their resources.
Points made by those in favour of the visit ranged from investment and aid, to the situation in Zimbabwe.
The messages in all camps ranged from the serious to the light-hearted.
Here are some excerpts:
Against
How can we, as a people, take a leader seriously when he bends the rules to suit his own ends? He interfered with the rest of the world, judging other countries and cultures to be of threat, even though he had no evidence. He disrupted thousands of lives. Now he is prohibiting (military) aid for some countries, because they agree that the actions taken by the USA should be investigated. The USA should have the same rules applied to them as every other country. Instead of touring Africa, discuss what can be done to help Africa...
- Brett Miller
Stick to your imitative Nelson (Mandela), stick to your comments Thabo (Mbeki) - what right, if any, does George Bush have to visit our glorious country and tell our leaders what they must do or not. Although the USA has large investments in our country (so do many other countries), it does not pave the way for him to tell us what to do. I am an ex-pat living in the UK temporarily and you would be shocked by the views of the South Africans living in this country pertaining to the USA...
Lots of people reckon he was only after the oil in Iraq. Could it be he now wants to take control of the gold, silver, copper etc? Go home, Mr Bush, and leave our government and fabulous country alone... Instead of creating wars, why not donate all the money he spends into something worthwhile...
- Carolyn
If I were the minister of home affairs I would not grant him a visa to enter our country... The only reason the Yanks went into Iraq was for oil and that is proved because the Weapons of Mass Destruction (none found) were a smokescreen to cover their true intentions. I don't think the Yanks are friends of South Africa; they should learn to stop interfering in sovereign countries domestic affairs...
- CS Griessen
Tell Bush he is not welcome here!
- Faizel Jappie
I think George Bush should stay in his own country. I don't think he has any business coming to South Africa. He is probably going to come here and disrupt everything. He might find something he likes and, a few months later, you'll hear that we have "weapons of mass destruction". Then he'll decide to blow our country up and take whatever he wants.
- Farhaad Suliman
It is ironic that South Africa, which has a constitution which enshrines human rights and individual liberties and which subscribes to those ideals, seems eager to play host to the leader of a country which uses brute economic and military force to wage illegal war for economic reasons, and which seeks to remake the world in its own image without consent. Hopefully, the SA government will use the opportunity restate their position to the war...
- G Watson
Tell the Yankee to stay at home! This visit is only to expand the crazy quest for world dominance... Madiba was right. He doesn't think straight.
- Jan Henning
Allowing George Bush to come to South Africa is a very serious mistake. I cannot believe that South Africans will stoop so low as to allow him in our own backyard. George Bush does not respect the UN or any other international body...
If you see him, ask him the following questions:
1. Where are the Iraqi weapons?
2. Did he win the elections fairly?
3. What is his position about learders that are not elected by anyone, like Musharaff of Pakistan?
4. Is it legal to throw other countries' leaders out of office?
5.Why should Americans be granted amnesty from procecution?
- Jericho
Bush has no right to come into our country and mock us on our own soil. What does he now expect us to do? Stand still and sing the "amerikan" anthem... He is an ill-mannered leader who sees himself as some god. Not on African soil! Not anymore!
- Kimberley
I don't like it. He is here on a marketing mission for American drug companies that produce antiretrovirals... This is going to fuel into a fire between the government and TAC... Then he also wants to come here to play like Mr Nice Guy when he knows he has a lot to answer for the invasion of Iraq... Mr Bush's visit to Africa shows how much he undermines OUR intelligence...he is very naive.
- Anonymous
This country of ours is a beautiful place to live in and we are quite happy with our lives here at home. We definitely do not need Bush's advice or any input from him, be it economical or political. He is not person I would look for help from or even friendship... We don't need his aid... They are stopping military aid to us, so why bother coming here... He is not welcome.
- Lebogang
All I can say about Mr Bush coming to South Africa is thank the Pope I am not in South Africa at the moment! Luckily I'm on holiday... Anyway, make your feelings known, South Africa!
- Lauren Losper
There are many reasons why we should not have Bush in this country... Such a man of double standards should not be praised by anyone in South Africa.
- Linda
I think Bush's visit to Africa is uncalled for. The man has double-crossed the United Nations by starting war against Iraq...
- Molatelo
Personally, think he is not welcome in South Africa, he will teach our president (bad tricks)... I fully support the former president, Mr Nelson Mandela, that Bush can't think properly... He does not have a value in human dignity.
- Rodgers Mhlongo
I agree and applaud Mr Mandela for not meeting with him. Our government and Mr Mbeki should do the same... Please, please, please - let the powers that be cancel his trip. We should all snub him. He can rather send former president Bill Clinton... We will welcome him any day.
- Sue Straub
For months before the war in Iraq, the world was deceived by "Uncle Sam Bush" as to the motivation to go to war... Now that the war is over, we still have not seen the so-called weapons of mass destruction... There is no doubt that Saddam Hussein was a tyrant, but maybe Jacques Chiraq was the bravest of all at the UN security council... The point is the thinner the diplomatic cord between SA and USA, the better for us all.
- Paul
We don't want him or need him here. Leave Africa alone!
- Wendy
General
The visit will focus attention on Africa. The problem is that it is shortlived. Africa gets neglected again the moment the leaders return home. The question then becomes how can one best sustain interest in the well-being of Africa and Africans? Do leaders like Bush have a firm and principled conviction to help Africa get out of the cycle of violence, poverty, maladministration and injustice? Or are these leaders simply paying lip service and shedding crocodile tears? So, if Bush's visit is to be of any value (which I must say I doubt very much) it must be based on two essential factors:
1. Clear purpose and intent - what policy is he ready to articulate that will be sustainable and fully implemented - a policy that will help Africa get out of its current predicament?
2. Is this policy based purely on US interest or is it unconditional?
- Fikre M. Tsehai, Vancouver, Canada
I feel the visit (will be) encouraging and worthwhile. However, I feel he should pull an Iraq move to liberate Rhodesia. He must also threaten to stop - not cut - aid to all African countries if they don't start running their countries in a democratic way and cut crime and corruption.
- Lee
He is provoking people, even though he thinks he's right. He should be very aware that he angered nations with his Iraqi invasion.
- "Mit freundlichen GrüBen," Johnny Matlakala
Bush is one who lied to the world by telling that Saddam had WMD... Now, do you want me to be happy? I don't care if he comes or not, I'm just glad that Tata Mandela won't be meeting him... I support the UN.
- Xolani
G W Bush. He is the embodiment of the consciousness of the Western society. We were better off during the dark ages.
- Jay Richards
The only politician in the world who says more stupid things than Manto is coming here? Great! I'm sure they'll get along. He can teach her the art of malapropisms and she can polish his skills of contradiction. But, to be fair, even though it's a fine line, I think Bush just beats her in the "mamparra" stakes.
-- Amanda
Arrest him.
- Thea
Has he got enough oil resources and now he's looking for gold and diamond resources?
- Sherreen
While Bush's and America's efforts on fighting Aids are commendable, the move on suspending military aid to countries which refused to sign the document giving American immunity from prosecution for war crimes exposes them for what they really are - an arrogant superpower that seeks to control every aspect of our life. They are assuming the modern-day role of a colonial power. Their intereset in Iraq is oil, no doubt. We are just wondering what their interests in Africa, especially SA, are. The sad stories in Angola, DRC, Sierra Leonne etc. do not give much hope. All these countries have one thing in common though - plenty of natural resources and a people whose life has never been valued!
- Victor
The sad thing about the Bush crusade is that by the time the whole world realises where Bush is leading the whole world, it might be too late. We continue to see the after-effects of what Bush power can do to people's lives. There seems to be very little, if any, will from the leaders of the world to stand up for peace and stability... The sooner we see world leaders like President Chiraq of France standing up to be counted, the better.
- Sam Ndlovu
I think it is important for Thabo Mbeki to not buckle under the US power/fear driven approach. Mbeki must stand by his opposed stance against the totally fabricated Iraqi war. Bush is cleary trying to save himself by bullying smaller countries into not allowing the US army to be prosecuted. I do feel, however, it is important for us to maintain the ties (as with any
relationship) and have a clear communication and intent on how each country can really help each other. When the US changes government... then the relationship can become more trustful again.
- José Correia
As an American, I am pleased that he is visiting your beautiful country. South Africa should keep him. That way he cannot do further harm to the US or the rest of the world.
-Gary, Uxbridge Massachusetts, USA
In favour
President Bush's visit is an honour for Africa... Africans should take advantage of the benefits his visit could bring to the country!
- Anonymous
It's a good thing. Africa needs the support of the West since Africa cannot solve its problems on its own.
- Stephen
I wish the American president would send troops to hit Mugabe and his war vets very, very hard. I am an asylum seeker in England and was refused. I cannot go back - the war vets know me. Bush should dispose of Robert Mugabe.
- Sharon
I think Bush can help to solve problems in southern Africa around poverty, as well as address problems in Zimbabwe. Pres Mbeki and he can come up with a solution for the region. Remember, infection of a southern African country affects us as South Africans and that it is better to prevent than cure...
- Mike Makoena, who also "accepted" that the visit was probably a campaign to get Bush re-elected.
I feel nervous that militant South Africans are going to embarrass us by marching and protesting against his visit. My main concern for our country is to generate good relations with foreign countries as we desperately need them to invest in S Africa... We need America's support....there are far worse people that have visited our country, eg certain officials from Cuba. We gave them royal treatment. I am glad he is to visit us. We should be an example of tolerance to him... It would serve our own good if he was to leave here feeling that we have blessed him and that he has learnt something positive from Cape Town... This man has the power to help us here in South Africa. I think its totally short-sighted of us to want to slam his visit.
- Chanel M
Personally, I am a fervent supporter of George W Bush and his policies. In a world where politicians have become expert crowd-pleasers and are willing to compromise their principles to follow the direction the political wind is blowing, it is refreshing to see a political leader that is remarkably straightforward with his opinions and very forthcoming about his views. But irrespective of your opinion of Bush, there is a larger picture here. It seems to me that Cosatu and the other members of the anti-Bush movement, are a clear example of someone cutting off his nose to spite his face. Because of their almost fanatical anti-war, and therefore anti-American stance, they are willing to jeopardise the economic well-being of the very people they profess to represent, that being the poorest of the poor in South Africa. With the United States being responsible for 40% of all foreign investment in South Africa, it surely cannot be beyond the grasp of even the most-radical Communist hardliner that it is in our interest to strengthen ties with the mighty US wherever we can... It is time for the self-important and unforgivably irresponsible leaders of certain sections of the South African political scene to grow up, and realise what is really at stake here. Yes, they can, and most probably will continue to follow their anti-American agenda, and yes, it will probably gain them some cheap votes from the disillusioned and less knowledgeable members of the voting public. In a similar way, Robert Mugabe retains the support of his hard-liners, by still claiming that the economic and social crisis in his country is due to 'sabotage' by the British government... But, the reality is that they are merely sowing the seeds of future hardships for their countrymen. Instead, we should see this visit as a unique opportunity for South Africa, an opportunity to gain the goodwill and attention of the economic titan that is the United States, and to expand our mutual ties with the US as much as possible. Our economic future is fragile at best, and the lack of foresight that seems to be the characteristic of too many of our political leaders, can cost us dearly in the long run. If we want to create a better life for our citizens, and if we want to be a visionary, exemplary leader in a new Africa, then it is vital that we continue into this new century with the United States of America as our firm friends and not as our foes.
- Jacques Pienaar, London
President Bush and a few others openly acknowledge that our world is ruled by those operating to the disadvantage of others around them. Drug traffickers flourish and drug addicts perish. Political and religious extremists will brainwash their followers to give their lives in order to make a statement of supremacy, instead of respecting those believing otherwise. We tend to blame America to be the capitalistic rulers of the world, but forget that the Bin Ladens are worth a small fortune.
We need to realise that a decision made by a world leader will always be open to criticism, even within his inner self... In South Africa, we are governed by the Mbeki administration, and I am very proud of what our country have achieved... But we have to face our own internal instability (eg crime)... Like President Bush we need to openly acknowledge that, by acting against it. We as normal people live with those cold-blooded criminals and see them ruling our streets, something our government not even know the exact statistics for. They don't have to send their kids to school or a shop around the corner praying they will come back alive. Please open your Eyes.
- John
Thank you for the opportunity to express my feeling towards this matter. As USA will not be misled in any way, it would be a good thing to get Mr Bush to visit my country and view the situation in South Africa and neighbouring states.
- news24 enthusiast
Good for him! It is time that the American president visits South Africa (and Africa) so they can see for themselves and not always depend on the words and pictures of others. I hope that they can do something to help the people of Zimbabwe.
- Adrie Lerch
I hope now some pressure will be put on Mugabe's bedfellow, Mbeki, to address the horrors of the Zimbabwe situation.
- Alistair Matthewman, California
Well, after the war in Iraq, this couldnt be a better time. Some countries, like SA, were talking too much... Now the man himself is coming here (like Mohammed coming to the mountain because the mountain can't come to him). This already says a lot about the integrity of the president of the United States... a real leader who is capable of making decisions and ready to face the consequences of his decisions. I am looking forward to hearing him being straightforward regarding the situation in Africa, especially in the Sadac region. South Africa has said a lot about the war in Iraq, while it has said practically nothing about the situation in Zimbabwe. I want to hear our leaders canonising Mugabe. For our country, Mugabe is a holy man, a real patriot, while Bush is a dictator. I would like to hear our leaders telling Bush that he is, in fact, a dictator, as they have been trying to convince us during the war in Iraq. In a few words, I am looking forward to the drama!
- Thabo
I differ with some of the policies of the United States, but differ with some of the policies of our own government, as well. So, before anybody decides to criticise the Bush administration, consider the millions of dollars of aid given to Africa by the United States, which millions of people rely on every year. Rather focus all your attention at home and don't try to make the visit of President Bush a publicity stunt!
- Alwyn Fouche
Pres George W Bush is only welcome in SA if he tells Mugabe to leave Zimbabwe.
- Ansa
Well, as a fellow South African, I am very disappointed about SA's attitude towards President Bush. I think, personally, that we must feel honoured that he actually took time out of his schedule to visit a country that only criticises him and his country. By the way, the US was one of the countries that supported the breakdown of apartheid and now we just criticise him. I think we must actually start saying thanks to them and show some appreciation... President Bush, I feel honoured to have you in our country. I was in your country earlier in the year for three months and I think you can be proud of your people. They are proud of you.
Congratulations on taking on the affirmative-action case against Michigan University. It is about time that somebody says enough is a enough with affirmative action. Merits, merits and merits is the only way to succeed. I think everybody had enough time to get to the same level with no discrimination. We must start going forward and not backwards because people are chosen because of colour and not because they are the best. We are pulling ourselves down. President Bush, show South Africa what a real president is all about. Thanks for visiting South Africa.
- David
I am glad he is coming to visit. I am looking forward to hearing him speak to us. I only hope our government will honour him accordingly.
- C Gawlowski
Let's hope the visit of this great man can knock some sense into Thabo Mbeki and others in the region who are either deceived, or are themselves cunning deceivers regarding the real situation in Zimbabwe. Surely Joaquim Chissano's speech in Washington last month in which he said Mugabe had wrought a "miracle" by uniting the country was a great distortion of the truth...
Who, for example, is being asked to sort out Liberia's mess? Is it not the same George Bush? Is not Obasanjo among those secretly begging Bush to intervene? So, why is he suddenly "imperialist" when he speaks on Zimbabwe, but is good enough to do Africa's dirty work in Liberia?
- Clayton
Much has been said about Bush. Now, it is up to him to say something, like improving the African economy. Or, is he here to look for weapons of mass destruction? Then he should visit the places where he has cost so many lives...
- Sello
All I can say is if Mugabe is allowed in South Africa there is no reason why Bush shouldn?t.
- Dave & Gill
Join him. If you can't beat him, join him.
- Dr Greg
I think it's wonderful that Pres Bush is visiting SA. It is just a pity that SA people are narrow-minded and planning to make his visit unpleasant by organising marches to show him we are against what he stands for and what he is doing. I hope he will know that we do not all feel the same...
- Elmarie
Mr Bush's leadership is outstanding in a time of turmoil and the whole of South Africa should be honoured by his visit.
-H Kruger, California
Visit our special report for all the facts and views on Bush's visit to Africa.
By Friday morning, more than 83% of users taking part in our home page poll said they would not be joining protest marches against the visit. About 12% said they would, and about 4% said they were still undecided.
- News24
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