By: Natasha Archary
The coronation ceremony of King Misuzulu kaZwelithini prompted the discussion on Kaya Drive over whether leaders are built or born.
Unlike royalty which is determined by lineage, bloodlines and hierarchy, leadership in general doesn’t rely on a matter of birthright.
Talking about our politicians, political parties and the pending elections, the question is are South Africans going to vote for the “machine” aka the political parties or the leaders?
Take the ANC’s current struggles as an example, while the machine may still be churning, there’s no faith in the leadership.
The ANC holds a strong place in the hearts of a majority of the country’s citizens for its struggle and victory during apartheid and the strides made in combatting inequality.
Will this however, be enough to keep the ruling party and its President, Cyril Ramaphosa in power for another term?
Most listeners of Kaya Drive say that the legacy will live on and the machine still has a beating heart. That voting for a leader is not how they will be approaching these elections because leaders come and go.
But, it’s about the party and what it stands for, more importantly WHO it stands for that counts for something.
Listen to the conversation on Kaya Drive:
President Cyril Ramaphosa’s ability to lead has been questioned by former Presidents who say he’s responsible for the current state of the country.
South Africa’s failings don’t just revolve around Eskom’s power crisis or its massive R400 billion debt, but the high levels of crime, unemployment, poverty, overall economy and people living hand to mouth due to the rising cost of living.
Questioning Ramaphosa’s prowess to operate the machinery that is the ANC, boils down to whether the President is truly going to improve things for the average citizen.
His innate ability to calm the masses during extreme panic, as was witnessed during the Covid-19 pandemic may not be enough to see him through another term.
Sentiment is that people are growing impatient with his excuses and want to see action instead.
Also read: EFF lashes out on forensic investigator Paul O’Sullivan’s behaviour in SABC interview
