In Support of Malema

Juju’s new political party the Economic Freedom Fighters (EFF) had their official opening ceremony a couple days ago.  At it he slaughtered several cows and talked about the resistance of many white South Africans to relinquish “stolen” land.  He also talked about the need for political leaders who were “intellectuals,” people who read, who were “thinkers,” and not pawns of Western neo-imperialist interests.

Malema is certainly a polarizing figure who gets way too much press.  He is reckless, rude, and shows little respect for authority figures.  All of which contributed to his ejection from the ANC.  

But Malema also often speaks truth to power and his continued presence in South Africa’s political scene should be welcomed by all.  The people he represents will not be silenced by his absence, nor should they be.  For their concerns are real and valid. 

Everyone, black or white, should be concerned with the slow pace of transformation and the “land” issue in South Africa.

Everyone, black or white, would be a fool to believe that white privilege has been eradicated. 

Most would agree that President Zuma is not an intellectual, that he is not “a reader.”  Malema is certainly not the only one to have voiced this concern.

Many in South Africa black and white are dissatisfied with the ANC’s leadership of the country particularly in regards to corruption and poor “service delivery.”

Now I disagree with almost all of Malema’s policy agenda.  But the fear and hate that this agenda garners particularly among white South African’s is utterly unwarranted.  The annoying refrain that South Africa could still become another Zimbabwe is simply not credible anymore and is insulting to the millions of “born-frees” and otherwise, black and white, who are earnestly struggling to forge a Rainbow Nation from the wreckages of Apartheid. 

Extremity breeds extremity.  For those who complain about Malema’s extremeness, they should look towards that which he is reacting against.   Neither is pretty.