For the longest time there’s been a relentless global slew of negativity – from politics to war to climate change – that can eat into the most optimistic heart. So it is with real joy that we watched the unfolding of South Africa’s 7th democratic election, which might just be the most surprising, good-news story for a while!
After years of crushing maladministration and corruption, the need for radical political change has been stark but no-one knew quite what to expect. Would voters be prepared to look beyond their sentimental allegiance to the African National Congress (ANC) – the political party of Nelson Mandela, that led them to democracy – and consider a different future?
The answer came on 29 May read more
when the ANC garnered a mere 40% of the votes and was forced to form a Government of National Unity (GNU) in coalition with parties from across the political spectrum.
It’s a far cry from the days of the Rainbow Nation. The coalition partners are not natural bedfellows and there’s bound to be significant disruption ahead. Yet, this tells us so much about the people of South Africa.
Not only how weary they are of having government’s promises unmet and how desperate they are to build better lives for themselves and their communities. It is also a clear signal – from its people of all races, tribes, ages and economic groups – that they demand their political representatives to put their country first, instead of themselves!
Sure, it’s going to be messy. Just like life everywhere else on this planet. However, Infinite Family sees this a positive, watershed moment and we’re more hopeful than we’ve been in some time that our Net Buddies will have the brighter future they yearn for.