Staying positive, working and praying for change - Jacob Zuma's nomination...

Much of my ministry and adult life has been spent working in black South African communities, and living in predominantly black communities. I have had to learn a great deal about the power of collectivism.

It has astonished me how the community has the power to silence dissident voices for the common good. I see it often. Even though many persons feel a sense of disquiet about something they will submit to the view of the majority and not voice their concerns.

Perhaps I still have some further growing to do in this regard. I feel that I cannot keep silent on this one.

I was alarmed to hear on the morning news that Mr Jacob Zuma has won an overwhelming majority of the nomination votes to be the next President of the ANC (the ruling party in Southern Africa). If you are outside of South Africa you may not be up to date who Jacob Zuma is. Among other things he has:

1. Been dismissed as the Deputy President of South Africa.
2. Was implicated in a sex scandal where he had unprotected sex with an HIV Positive woman (while heading up the South African campaign for moral regeneration).
3. Is at the center of the 'arms' fiasco, having clearly shown dubious moral and ethical principles in procuring arms contracts, awarding tenders, and taking bribes.

It concerns me that we live in a country where a person who has a track record like this would be considered for high office! Surely we require someone with greater integrity and moral standing than this?

Moreover, there are some further human rights concerns looming if this man is to be the next president of the ruling part (which is only a few small steps from the presidency):

1. He has vowed to re-instate the death penalty.
2. He has made some infamatory and debasing remarks about persons who have a a same sex orientation.

I worry... Is this the begining of the end?

Please forgive me for my pessimism! I desperately want to believe that our nation has the capacity for success. This begins with making some tough and informed choices! We need outstanding leadership, not leaders who are fraught with controversy and scandal.

I shall be praying that my attitude changes. I shall also be praying that we have enough sense to do what is courageous and right.

God bless Africa
Guard her children
Guide her leaders
Give her peace.

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