Night out with Dumza Maswana.

 

Yesterday, 13 June 2014, I attended the Youth unplugged concert at the Joburg Theatre in Braamfonitein along many other kings and queens of the Jozi night scene. Just incase you’re thinking  it was  one of those youth collabo concerts, where the young perform poetry, do skits,  dance and attempt to sing, well it was not. The night was of intimate song offerings from a rising musician, Dumisani Maswana aka ‘Dumza’.  As usual I arrived at the venue a bit early before time (this always allows me to see whose coming with whom and do a bit of socialising here and there). Unexpectedly just as I was doing my own venue assessment (checking if the loo is clean or whether the emergency exit points were operational incase one had to use them), I bumped into a couple of familiar faces and TD Jokes happened to me one of them. I immediately knew that I would be unruly for the night as we set next to each other throughout the concert.  In no time, the venue was open, very small and intimate but fit for the occasion. Everybody made way, got seated and the music had to begin.

To set the tone for the evening was Mpho Ludidi, a guitarist who also backs as a tenor vocalist in the band. When he took to stage, I had doubts of my own as in this short lifetime I have come across very few singers who can play and deliver vocally with great effort at the same time. But this talent proved me wrong as he delivered a with a clear calm voice and sincere emotion singing ‘Lelolanga’. I found myself humming the melody and snapping fingers as he souled the audience along. The rest of the band joined and the backing vocalists- Tumelo Moloi (soprano) and Kgomotso (alto) also took position. It was my first time hearing them live and I can confidently say that Dumza is well backed with those three behind him. So they stole my heart as they paced along the band with an item that first sounded like the national anthem, not that I was opposed to the idea of starting with Nkosi Sikelel’I Africa, but they later on switched to Sombawo, the first official item for the night. The mood for the evening was set and the main man for the night took to stage as the lovely audience cheered for him on.

 

The talented Maswana in a grey suit salved from Sombawo to “So hard”, it was my first time hearing this song but I can tell you that I was on my feet singing along as there was a favourite line that went “I have worked so hard to get where I am with god by my side…” (something like that) but in its rationale the song resonated in me and the current situation in ways more than one.  Following that was ‘Changed Man’; I loved what he did in his line up as he introduced new songs and backed them with old ones from his debut album. This track has always been one of my favourites from his album. This time around the delivery was done with a bit of a twist as he gave the floor a taste of what the voices behind him could do. In their incredible outdo, they showed us flames. Kgomotso, has a lovely voice but beyond that I was impressed with her range, she went higher and higher. Next was Tumelo Moloi, she is not just a Ntokozo Mbambo look alike, the lady gave the word “SANG” as Americans would say, a proper definition for the night. Those ladies sang the daisy lights out in songville. Following that was ‘I Choose To Believe’, another new song that spoke to me too. I must say Dumza has grown as an artist over the years; he has found his signature sound and putting it into good use.  Another song I loved was ‘Njenge Fish’, I don’t know why but I love it Hahahaha. Perhaps it’s the love effect in it.

When I thought I was ready to seat down or take a break, Dumza introduced Keke Mabusela on stage. THAT WAS ILLEGAL DUMZA!!! NO!  I couldn’t handle so much talent in one night. It was just beyond my capacity. Way beyond what I could handle in one night. I’m not quite sure whether to call that singing but let me say Keke made beautiful sounds and melodies as he rendered ‘Sound Check’, a song he sings on Muffins. I don’t want to say much as I could end up with morethan three paragraphs attempting to describe this guy’s performance. He did it. After that performance, we deserved a 15-minute break which we took and refreshed for the second set.

After the break, Dumza took to stage and this time he seemed more free and comfortable. He danced more and interacted some more. With ‘The way’ being the first performance for this set, I must mention that a few honourable members in the audience seemed and sounded a bit ‘flafar’ (tipsy) than before. Im starting to think there was a gallon of home brewed beer somewhere at the back. Nonetheless, they made a great audience.  ‘The way’ and ‘Andikho’ followed before he did a tribute to the late Victor Ntoni. I must share that I also heard one of the ladies behind us saying “Oooh! I know Pastor Victor Ntoni”.

In his delivery of ‘Sethu’ by the late Ntoni, Dumza really seemed to be in space with this one as his emotions started to tap along. Yes, he got emotional and that is when some audience members began an offering service by putting money on stage. I felt that was a very noble gesture, a humbling sign of UBUNTU. Accompanied the tribute was ‘ Thetha’ also the late Ntoni.  Such emotional and soulful offerings.  A few other items fell on set before he closed the show with Nguye. But before that he took us back with ‘Molo’, a lovely song although there was a bit of an awkward moment when asked us to hold the person next to us, look at them and say molo… nothing wrong. Just awkward. The evening closed with Nguye, the main man took a bow and left the stage.

This was an illustrious evening. The songs were awesome and the audience was super. After what I saw last night, I have no doubt that Dumza is much closer than he thinks to becoming Mr Hottip in his genre.

The End!!!

 

I Want To Sing Gospel- Season 3 Voyage

Thursday, 27th March 2014, marked  the first  Season 3 broadcast  of Mzansi’s most loved Gospel singing competition, I Wanna Sing Gospel, offering a soul-filled music galore like never before.  Of thousands of hopefuls throughout the country, only one will make a match and walk away with a Grand Prize of R200 000 in cash and a rewarding recording deal. Thus far the competition has been on high and lows with talent ranging from contemporary to traditional singing style with viewers getting a chance to vote for their favourite talent after every broadcast on Thursday nights.

The musical journey kick started in November 2013 with an audition process in Durban, East London and Johannesburg, that set to discover South Africa’s next gospel stars that would go through 13 weeks of gruelling competition in a bid to impress the judges and the viewers at home.

Since the top ten took to stage, the contestants have been showcasing a wide range of musical ability leaving both the studio audience and the viewers at home longing for more.

Occupying the judging panel has been;

Award-Winning SA Gospel giant- Ntokozo Mbambo-Mbatha.

 

Sharp-tongue record label owner- Tsepo Zuzumuzi Nzimande.

 

Owner and founder of Big Fish Music- Sipho "Big Fish" Makhabane.

On this season though, music maestro Lindelani Mkhize returned as a musical mentor to these hardworking hopefuls inspiring each one to make their mark.

With that said, the standard of this season’s production was slightly lacking spark from the very first episode that touched ground earlier in March. This could also be as a result of a crucial prime-time airing time that competed with popular programmes in other channels.

In May 25, this season’s Top 5 was announced namely, Katludi (JHB), Nelisiwe (DBN)), Sibusisiwe (EL), Sthembiso (DBN) and Lynnzay (EL). Of these hopefuls only one will grab the big bucks and walk away with a guaranteed recording compact.

In June 01, the competition took an unexpected turn when none of the contestants went home following a heavy sigh moment when Nelisiwe, Lynnzay and Sthembiso made the bottom three. Sthembiso and Nelisiwe were no strangers in the bottom seat, however, the musical Lynnzay gave  judges a shock with them making utterances like, “You do not belong in the bottom three”.  This could have led to this unforeseen angle of judgement. This however meant that in the following episode, two people were standing for the walk of shame after elimination.

 

Tonight, 08 June, elimination took place as promised. A saddening announcement of two talented talents; Sibusisiwe and Katludi leaving the show took turn. With that leaving Lynnzay, Nelisiwe and Sthembiso battling for the grand prize. The show was however not the same after these two hung up their microphones. During the recording, things literally went from sweet to sour as the disgruntled viewers attempted to leave during the proceedings.

However, lets quickly have a close look at the Top 5 this season.

 

 

Lynnzay;

There is a usual saying that “if you want to know how to hit a note, go to a coloured church”. This contestant proved exactly that. From the very first day I heard her open her mouth; I knew she was no looser material. Lynnzay has been a remarkable high ever since she took to stage during the competition. Her vocal abilities are beyond spectacular. Beyond her voice, she has presence that fills the stage when she performs. She ministers and leaves you with Goosebumps after every performance. With a twist of Yolanda Adams in her range, she is taking a grand stand in the Top 3 for this season.  There is no doubt that Lynnzay is another big thing to hit the gospel music shores in Mzantsi.

Nelisiwe.

This talent has nothing loud in appearance. From a first glance, she appears ‘ordinary’ but her talent is definitely not. Nelisiwe started in a little uncertain position in the competition with that earning her two bottom three episodes. She however managed to redeem herself in each one. I saw flames from this lady’s performance when she performed a Zulu song (Title forgotten). In that performance even the most feared judge ‘Zuzumuzi’ was left thinking about the abducted girls in Nigeria. Nelisiwe gave her soul and showcased her sound musical knowledge and ability to pitch high notes. For the gift in her, I can’t help but think of the former Joyous Celebration singer and backing vocalist- Ntombizodwa Mahlangu. Everytime she sang ‘ithende’, I would be  tempted to say “IHIIII or YHEHEEENI BO”. She is a power house and like Lynnzay, she is occupying a seat in the Top 3.

Katludi “Team Asijiki”

Katludi, Katludi, Katludi… who needs to go to a Bebe Winnans concert when we have you? The first time I met Katludi, I knew I had seen him somewhere, and it hit me, Idols SA in 2011. I immediately knew that the competition had a bit of a turn up this season as he was no stranger to voting and elimination. Indeed katludi took every performance to a personal high level. My favourite performance of him this season was when he perfomed “Never would have made it” by Marvin Sapp. I found myself standing on my feet and singing along. That’s the kind of effect his stage renditions had on me and many alike. It’s no secrete that Katludi had more supporters than any of the other contestants in studio. Despite his remarkable voice and perfomances though, he now and again received harsh and solid comments from some of the judges. Zuzumuzi  could not hide how happy he was about Katludi and how he though he was not ‘bringing out himself’. Katludi however continued to bring his very best till his last stand in the competition. He is definitely heading towards greatness.

Sibusisiwe.

Sibusisiwe is a gentle dove with chill that says “just hand me the microphone and let me do my thing”. The red hair talent was different amongst the rest. From her dress-style to her presentation on stage. Being a polite contemporary-jazz-gospel artist she is, she faced up to the challenges of singing some of the traditional gospel offerings as ordered by her mentor. In an episode before her last, she took to stage featuring another former season one contestant who has well established himself in the music industry Kgotso. In her duet, she closed her impressive performance with Sipho Makhabane’s  “Zawa” which left the judges well impressed except for Tsepo Nzimande who believed she was just “MILD”. This remark left many of #TeamSibu’s supporters in the studio and in social polls with a burden and resolute to vote. Sibusiswe’s last performance where she sang Jessica Reedy’s God Has Smiled On Me dragged emotions along with a couple of guests in the audience wiping watery eyes and goosey skin. My personal favourite performance by her was when she nailed the famous “Instrument of Praise” by The Clark Sisters. There’s no doubt Sibusisiwe is breaking all the stereotypical rules in the music scene with her rare approach to gospel music. A trend setter in a pathway.

 

Sthembiso

This one is a fighter. From occupying the bottom 3 morethan twice, he has proven that he is no “weakest link” as Nzimande once remarked. He is another gentle singer who can effortlessly merge contemporary with traditional and give other contestants a run for their talent. Sthembiso has literally evolved throughout the competition. He has moved from a talented yet shy singer to a stage occupying brave singer. It has been such a pleasure observing him throughout the competition. He also has a very distinct signature voice. Ntokozo Mbambo made it no secret of how impressed she was with his bottom notes and how she taught he was improving in every performance. Although he seemed ready to go home after every last performance due to a few votes, the judges kept him on with a lifeline till he made it to the TOP 3. Although this came as a surprise to many following his numerous lifelines, Sthembiso is now battling for the grand prize with two other contestants in the Top 3.

 

This far, the competition has been a rollercoaster ride, from pick-up cheery moments to lowdown saddening ones. With Sibusisiwe and Katludi out of the competition, the question still remains, who will be crowned South Africa’s News gospel sensation between Nelisiwe, Lynnzay and Sthembiso.

 

The Rise and Fall of COPE

After the 2009 elections, the Congress of the People became South Africa’s political darlings following their wondrous victory of 30 seats in the National Assembly. Cope, a splinter break-away party from the ruling-ANC, came about when the recall of former President Thabo Mbeki spurred senior leaders of the ANC to pull away in protest and call for a National Convention.

16 December 2008, the interim leadership of COPE was announced in Bloemfontein. From this, Mosioua Lekota was elected President, Mbazima Shilowa Deputy President, Lynda Odendaal 2^nd Deputy President and Charlotte Lobe as Secretary General. Although these appointments were officially announced, they were later to be challenged by numerous court interdicts.

In 22 January 2009, former president F. W. de Klerk said he believed the formation of COPE would change the political landscape of the country. Soon thereafter, the then presidential candidate for Cope, Mvume Dandala, said that he was chosen unanimously by COPE's national committee. There was a widespread comment on the fact that the party leader, Terror Lekota, wasn't chosen. Dandala said Cope did not have a policy that says its president will always be the presidential candidate.

3 March 2009, in a surprise twist, former deputy president Phum zile Mlambo-Ngcuka accepted nomination for Parliament by COPE and featured "prominently" on the party's list submitted to the IEC. The apparent about-turn was confirmed by COPE elections Chief Mlungisi Hlongwane at the IEC's Pretoria headquarters at the time. He also revealed that former ANC Limpopo premier Sello Moloto had also agreed to stand for COPE as its premier candidate in that province. Mlambo-Ngcuka was formally welcomed as a COPE member at the weekend, but made it clear she wanted to be an ordinary member and said she was not interested in returning to public office.

With such an interesting turn of events, this was the beginning of party squabbles and exits for most COPE members.

In March 2009, Mlungisi Hlongwane, the election organiser for COPE, announced his return to the ANC.

Following in July 2009, Lynda Odendaal resigned as second deputy president and from all party structures. Next was,  Simon Grindrod who also resigned as head of elections. The leaders cited internal leadership problems for their resignations.

September 2009, Cope youth leader Anele Mda was suspended after the party’s congress working committee (CWC) found her to be in contravention of "several organizational matters". This, after the CWC received a letter of complaint from deputy general secretary Deidre Carter against Mda, the convenor of the Cope Youth Movement.

February 2010, Former Cope deputy-president Lynda Odendaal announced she was joining the ANC.

Meanwhile, in May 2010, Cope President Mosioua Lekota said that the decision by "a select few" to choose the party leaders was the biggest blunder and had paralysed the party. In an impassioned statement, Lekota offered another "sincere" apology to South Africans for his public spats with his deputy, Mbhazima Shilowa, and said he was prepared to be sacrificed for the greater good of the party.

In just a few months of this party’s existence, quarrels, power struggles and splinters were the order of the day. Major members who had shipped many ANC followers with, had returned back to the ANC and some were just too embarrassed to go back. This, we can regard as the beginning of this party’s fall off.

In September 2010, the party suspended the current Deputy President of the party, Willie Madisha  pending a disciplinary inquiry into claims that that he grabbed the private parts of Cope Women's Movement secretary Nozipho Didiza-Ndlela. The party's national committee (CNC) said in a statement: "The allegations of sexual harassment made against a CNC member have been referred to a disciplinary committee to be finalised by the next CNC."

Cope was rocked by another sexual harassment scandal, with allegations levelled against Avhatakali Mulaudzi, the party’s ex-Limpopo secretary. Cope's provincial leadership discussed the matter on Sunday, 3 October and referred it to its national disciplinary committee. Insiders say a woman – a party member - laid a formal complaint with the party, alleging Mulaudzi “improperly touched her (breasts)” in 2009. He allegedly continued stalking the woman, going to her private home in Haenertsburg, outside Tzaneen, at night. She was not alone in her allegations.  A 22-year-old unemployed woman from Seshego, west of Polokwane, claimed Mulaudzi forcibly touched her breasts and her bottom in the street. At the time, she and her friend had gone to meet Mulaudzi, who promised to pay them for working as party agents during last year’s general election. The friend told The Star that Mulaudzi “All of a sudden, after buying us food, said he had feelings for me”. She said they had insisted on getting the money they had worked for, and that she wanted nothing more to do with him. The two women said they had reported the matter to Frans Ratau, the local party chairman, who confirmed the allegations. “Yes, it is true, the women reported the matter to me, and I took it to the provincial leadership,” he said. But the party’s provincial spokesman, Ike Kekana, said he wasn’t aware of the allegations.

Mulaudzi, who remains a member of COPE’s provincial executive committee, denied the claims. He also said he was not aware of the allegations. “If this is a criminal case, it must be reported to the police.”

But the then party’s provincial chairman, Sello Moloto, confirmed the allegations. “The allegations were made and we are dealing with them,” he said.

A party that once made sense to a number of South African voters was now seen in question of its credibility, moral fibre and readiness to head in SA politics.

In October 2010, Cope removed Shilowa, as Chief whip. This followed his submission of what the party said was fraudulent documents to parliament. Party president, Mosiuoa Lekota, said that Shilowa fraudulently declared to parliament that an auditor, Anton Louw, was appointed to audit the party's books in March 2010. In a letter to the party, Louw denied auditing the party's books. Lolo Mashiane, administrative whip at the time, was also removed for failing to cooperate with a KPMG forensic audit into the party's parliamentary books. Tozamile Botha was appointed as acting chief whip and Juli Killian - House whip - would act as administrative whip.

Shilowa’s removal came with devastating effects in the party; COPE was now to be divided as supporters of Shilowa believed he was unjustly treated and he was due for a decent position in Parliament . They believed, Lekota was not suitable to lead the party on his own. COPE now had two factions, Lekota supporters and Shilowa supporters. This particular incident led the party to many court battles in pursuit of power. Lekota wasn’t willing to barge and Shilowa also believed he was equally entitled to leadership.

The chaos in COPE continued as senior party members led by Shilowa introduced themselves as the new executive, saying they had taken over from party president Lekota. Shilowa, who was presented to the media as COPE president, said his task was to prepare the party for the coming local government elections. He brushed aside questions about his election to the top post, saying he had been legally elected. Flanked yesterday by his new executive - which was made up of Mluleki George as deputy president, Zale Madonsela as second deputy president and national treasurer Ebrahim Savat - Shilowa said his mission was to rebuild the party and stop the factional battles.

 

However,  In 18 October 2013, the South Gauteng High Court declared Mosioua Lekota the legitimate leader of his party. The ruling further confirmed that the aborted conference of 2010 was not correct and did not happen, let alone elect new leadership. A battle against impunity fraud and ill-discipline has been won. This high court ruling paves the way for COPE to hold the conference in a dignified manner.  

Political analyst and Wits University’s public and development management professor Susan Booysen said there was not much hope for COPE in 2014 elections after the damage done to the party’s image during the infighting.

"I really don’t think there is much hope. This is a fight between … not even two large elephants but two small elephants. This is five years down the drain. After they had done reasonably well, the time has been wasted. They are still sitting with policies from five years ago," Booysen said.

However, in January 2014, Mosiuoa Lekota was re-elected as COPE president during the party's first national congress held from 10 - 12 January 2014 at the Birchwood Hotel in Boksburg. COPE spokesman Johann Abrie said in a statement that over 700 delegates, representing COPE's provincial, youth and regional structures, voted to elect the party's leadership. No one ran against Lekota for the position of party president. Former Cosatu president Willie Madisha was elected deputy president, Lyndall Shope-Mafole was elected general secretary, Deidre Carter was elected deputy general secretary and Johnny Huang was elected party treasurer. COPE was ready for elections and adamant that they would do even better than the 2009 election.  

07 May 2014, election day,  a day that would determine the fate of COPE, the party’s downfall became evident amidst new participants- EFF and NFP -who did fairly well and overshadowed the party’s glory. After all votes were counted, a loud bang of the party’s fall from 30 seats to only 3 proved embarrassing. This was the fade out of a party that once held South African’s hopes high, the first splinter in 20-years of democracy, which would now be disregarded amongst other political powers because of its downfall.

Unfortunately, Lekota had promised to eat his own hat should the party not exceed the 2009 election. The day after elections, he was seen doing exactly that, a bite to downfall.

 

Reeva Is No Intruder!

The article below is entirely based in the authors opinions and intends no inclination or prejudice for or against any person or group.


 Last week, 07 March 2014, marked an end of week-1 to a trial that has once again made South Africa a global spectacle in just a third month of mourning Nelson Mandela. Once again, a country with a fascinating story to tell makes global headlines as flocks of rapt journalists from all over the world jet into the African homeland to cover yet another international marvel’s life chapter. The only difference this time around, is that South Africa is telling a story unlike that of Madiba.

 

2013- In a globally acclaimed day of love, Valentine’s Day, a South African sprint runner and Paralympian- Oscar “Oz” Pistorius, (age 27), became the world's greatest subject of interest after killing his celebrity sweetheart and model, Reeva Steenkamp, in cold-blood. This dreadful occurrence left many in a pitch of startling scepticism and wonder of what could have possibly led a perceived halcyon and heroic Pistorius to killing his lover. In such bewilderment, the very same week Reeva died, our world champion explained himself as having accidentally mistook Steenkamp, with whom he shared a bed the very same night, for an intruder. It is then that Pistorius’ identity changed from "hero" to "murder suspect" as he gave February 14th a new meaning of difference and Reeva Steenkamp, a new identity- the deceased. To the Steenkamp family, a striking reality of never seeing their beloved Reeva’s smile, remains too much a burden to bear. Oscar Pistorius gets charged with murder- a subsequent gathering of evidence begins in a preparation of a legal battle in 2014, to proove his 'innocence'.

2014- South Africa's trial of mystery takes off. Analysts, Advocates, Reporters and Judges in their buoyancy are witnessed walking towards the same direction as they seek to unpack the mystery of what could have possibly transpired in Pistorius’ home in the night of February 14. Pistorius once again takes global spotlight but this time around, his life depends on it.




 Hither to, the trial has offered both the prosecution and defence an opportunity to present their pleas before the court. The opening statements of both parties proved that this trial will not take a period less than a month. In the coming weeks, a rank of witnesses will join the witness stand and face the austere cross-examination of Advoc Berry Roux who in the past week launched his attempt in defence to prove Pistorius, an innocent victim of circumstances. In this court room, the world got to learn that Oscar Pistorius "screams like a WOMAN". It is in this very same court room, that justice in its fickleness is ought to take its course and give the Steenkamps either redress or anguish. The trial will dissect all facts and presented evidence that led Reeva Steenkamp’s body to a lifeless-tagged-corpse at the morgue, which unfortunately, in its silence, gallons of truth about what really happened remain trapped.

Hypothesis, Delusions, Facts, Assumptions and Interogation will be the order of the season as the defence continues in its quest to invalidate the evidence offered by witnesses. Roux will continue scrutinizing the sequence of alleged screams, door-bangs, gun-shots and blood-spats which will eventually; complete the conundrum in its due realism. For as long as this series progresses, Reeva Steenkamp’s death will remain just a deadly error and nothing of a femicide statistic.

Of witnesses and neighbours, all four -- Michelle Burger, Estelle van der Merwe, Charl Johnson and Johan Stip, lies is a common denominator, that they all heard loud bangs which they insist were gun shots.

Roux shocks the court in his first assertion that when Pistorius screams, he sounds like a woman. There are some chuckles in court, but later that turns out to be a critical part of the defense.

Earlier, the prosecution, Adv Gerry Nel admitted that indeed there were no eye witnesses to the killing. The state then brough two unrelated gun charges against Pistorius.

One that a gun went off in a crowded restaurant when he was holding it. Another of when he fired a gun out a sun roof in irritation of a police argument he just had about his gun.

Amongst many questions, one of Pistorius having an anger problem and another of constantly using his gun to release tension at the tip of his anger, remain a critical part of this trial.

The last witness of the week was Pieter Baba, a security guard who was on duty the night Reeva was killed. After receiving calls from tenants who complained about hearing gunshots coming from the Pistorius house, he and another colleague decided to go and find out. Speaking on the phone to Pistorius on their way, Baba says, Pistorius himself said, "Security, everything is FINE" but because Baba heard that Pistorius wasn't in his normal state, he went to investigate despite. He arrived just in time to see Pistorius carrying Reeva's dead body down the stairs.

Another question surfices, what exacty did Pistorius mean by FINE and by moving the body from its initial position, did he perhaps have an alternative plan? What was Pistorius going to do with Steenkamp's body?

In the coming weeks, more and more will continue to unfold as details of this case lay bare in state of examination.


Amidst these progressions though, let me atleast introduce you to an angle that seems to take no precedence in the course of this trial.

In his statement, Oscar Pistorius claimed the shooting was an accident in which he misidentified beloved Reeva for an intruder. That version and portion of his statement brings a different allusion altogether in this incident. Moreover, it presents a third party that appears to have been present right from the beginning of this horror.

A supposed man, rapist, murderer or thief that remains a devilish villain and serious life threat in this episode, is still highly questionable. Who is this intruder Pistorius refered to, what race is he and why would he mistake him for Reeva? Which beast is this that would mislead a man of veneration like Pistorius into an unconscious state of reaching for his pistol around 2:00am; shoot through the bathroom door and do the unthinkable? How desperate was Oscar to gun down and destroy this creature? The intent was clear, despite who was behind that door, and it was to find a dead body in a pool of blood after those four bullets. WHO? is the question.

Let us then ignore the possibility of him having pre-meditate the murder of his darling, model Reeva and use our own assumption in an attempt to identify this supposed ‘intruder’ who is at fault for Reeva’s death.

• Oscar lived in Silverwoods Estate, a highly secured gated community with no past crime or violence record which could have led to his unthoughtful actions. It is the elite that encompass the majority of residents in this area.
• He spends two days in the same house as Steenkamp in what is believed to have been a romantic quality time in.
• Hypothetically, Oscar wakes up at 2: am, hears movements in the bathroom, puts on his blades, takes his pistol, resolutely walks towards the bathroom door and begins his shooting spree. How natural of a midnight progression.
• Neigbours report the gun shots, security calls the Pistorius house and Oscar Pistorius says "...Everything is FINE". How exactly?
• Did it cross Pistorius’ mind that the disruptive being who woke him up from his sleep could have been his girlfriend using the toilet?
• Why would Pistorius think of a pistol half asleep in the early hours of the morning? Was this a habitual practise?
• When he fired bullets to the supposed bogeyman through the bathroom door, three with no pause in between and the fourth one that went right through Reeva's head, finishing her, didn't he hear Steenkamp's screams?
• Can we perhaps assume that this ‘intruder’ whom Oscar was after could be in his psychological cosmos?
• How much of a coincidence is this sequence of events to happen in one night?
• How frightening was this supposed intruder, to have led Pistorius into firing four bullets at a close range through a bathroom door without realising what he was doing?
• Lastly, what Reeva doing with her cellphones? Was she desperately calling for help or was she in a phonecall with somebody else?
  
  

The ruthless-life-threatening intruder Pistorius is talking about, does indeed exist. In reality, he has always been in his house day and night. Pistorius himself has always been aware of his private trepidation. This man, who continues to walk freely without charge, has a name, a history, an identity and he is; BLACK CRIMINAL- a blood thirsty scavenger that continues to torment the lives of many white South Africans. He has famously claimed precedence in many white executed murders in this country and nobody has ever bothered to go after him. The only difference though is that this man of terror operates invisibly, dwells in the subconscious state and leads many of his victims into a condition of acting without thinking all in the name of self-defence.

The following are some but few reported cases of white victimisation by BLACKS in 2012/13.

• A white teenage girl was brutally raped to death by BLACK killers. Tanya Flowerday, 18, was found dumped on a grassy verge of a Darrenwood, Randburg street hours after her death, - but it took five days for her body to be identified, so torn to shreds and battered was her body.

• In Gordon's Bay near Cape Town, another elderly, helpless white woman was brutally beaten to death by BLACK killers. Pensioner Anna Myburgh was killed in her home inside a security complex on Wednesday by intruders who locked the house from the inside before fleeing through a bathroom window.

• Another white farmer was brutally murdered by BLACK killers. Koos Terblanche, 52, from the Trentham district near Betlehem in the Orange Free State, was tied up by two armed blacks, who then proceeded to slash his throat. He was found lying in a pool of blood in his bath by his domestic worker on Monday afternoon.

• In Brits in the western Transvaal, another young couple, presumably white, was also attacked by armed BLACKS. In the latest incident, the 18-year-old girl, who was sitting with her 19-year-old friend on the back of a bakkie on the bank of the Crocodile river, was brutally gang-raped by three BLACKS, who took turns while one held up the young man with a fire-arm. In the end, the attackers took the bakkie's radio, a cell-phone and 50 Rand.

• On a plot in Midrand, between Johannesburg and Pretoria, a group of armed BLACKS overpowered an elderly white couple, beat them with a sjambok till the husband passed out, and then shot the woman in the head. After the barbaric attack, the black robbers loaded up the couple's car with household goods and drove off. The victims were eventually found and taken to hospital, where the woman is in a critical condition, and her husband has been severely traumatised.

Presumably, this is the current state of our country and the reality of black-white relations. All these reports specify the identity of their victimisers and they are all black. Perhaps whites really do live in spat fear of white genocide in South Africa.


Lets create a scenario; A white old woman who comes across a black man in a park, its just the two of them. She is mostly likely to react this way-: grin, clench her handbag tight and from a distance her silent prayer for help remains even more visible as she gets closer to this man. Is she driven by black hatred, NO! She is driven by fear.

White South Africans really do fear for their lives and many are leaving the country as a result. So what could be the motivation behind this supposed white genocide fear?

In 2013, a shocking campaign for the exclusive, RED OCTOBER, made it to the shores. As provoking as it may, it however painted a picture of a racial war within a democratic structure.


There is absolutely no distinct justification for murder whether it’s racially motivated or not. Every human being has a right to life. I am however concerned about many white South Africans who in each day of their lives survive in fear of a vicious black murderer.


South Africa has a vicious cycle of racial hatred. Prior 1994 blood-spats, shooting sprees and many other forms of ruthless execution were launched by a white folk to torment blacks. Blacks feared for their lives. In actual fact, for centuries, a white man remained the black man’s worst nightmare. Post 1994, a white civilian fears for their life in this South Africa. Blacks are their apparent source of fear and as a result, they continue to act impromptu in a claim to protect themselves. So clearly there is an unhealthy culture of revenge and bitterness between these extreme racial groups.


The big question then is; Does Crime Have Race in SA? Is it only blacks who are initiators of hijacking, rapes and house break-ins? Bearing in mind ofcourse that they made 80% of the population.


For how long will this black villain occupy the psychological cosmos of a white man?

The reality that a black man who, for centuries survived the wicked intentions of a white man, remains fearless amidst such contraventions, Yet, a white man somehow feels threatened for life in just 20-years of democracy, raises concerns. How distorted is this picture? The poor element of trust and unsafety leaves much to be desired here and the unanswerable question of whether the race demon will ever be exorcised echoes even more.


And so Pistorius’ trial continues, hopefully as events unravel, and cross-examination proceeds, a possibility of a bigger room for thought will ascend.

Why I disapprove of Marie Claire's 'NAKED' issue.

AGANG Mamphele weds Polygamist husband, DA

It wasn’t long ago when South Africa’s political virgin, former activist, academic and now newlywed Mamphele Ramphele held the country at halt when she surprisingly gave birth to a political baby, AGANG. Although many were not sure of what to make of this sudden addition to our already chaotic political family, this babe-in-arms somehow proved to be of difference and erected much excitement to many citizens after Ramphele publicly announced that she will be contesting the upcoming 2014 elections. Professionals, Academics, Business Executives and Born Frees saw this as a salvation plan to their toil of indecisive political thoughts.  Like any fine-looking virgin, AGANG immediately became a new target with old bulls (COPE and ANC) drooling behind her for a moment away - but rumours of her getting married to any old party were shuttered by her famous words, “I am NOT a joiner but a change agent…”

 

TODAY, less than 12-months after this grand formation, we wake up to striking headlines; “Mamphele joins DA”. A moment of sheer silence and amazement for many South Africans, to some a reality of hope crumbling right infront of their eyes in wonder of when dear mama started being a ‘Joiner’.  “How could this be? How could she? Where does this leave us” are some of the unanswered questions roaming in many South African’s minds. The shocking revelation that Ramphele could have possibly lured many into a promise that will never materialise is difficult to digest.

Does this mean she knew along where her loyalties were but wanted to drag many with to her union of unholy matrimony? Is this what she meant when she said "The name of Agang SA party will be confirmed, modified or changed through the consultation process."?  It seems like Ramphele was the modern version of a walking messiah who spoke in conundrums and expected to be understood in whatever she said or referred to. The question of her naivety echoes even more after this sudden revelation. Where does this leave the abandoned new-born then?

The Democratic Alliance on the other side has a kept record of swallowing party structures, slip them in like a serpent, phase them out and clear their identity completely. First it was the Independent Democrats (ID) who in August 2010, neglected their political identity and moved in with Madam Hellen in the mighty DA mansion.

Following that were other political personas who found the idea of joining the DA ranks much appealing for reasons known to them only. Nosimo Balindlela who was also labelled a “political vulture”, in 2013, vacated her COPE office for benefits of comfort within the DA. Today, we witness the Ramphele+DA marriage. What could the DA be promising these prominent leaders for them to easily forsake all they stood for to be disciples of Sheperd Hellen? It is no doubt that Hellen is morethan just rosey chicks and abysmal dance moves; she has proven to be quite a charmer to these black mistresses .

This however can be viewed as a strategic acquisition for the DA to bolster its black support . Lindiwe Mazibuko, Nosimo Bhalindlela and Mamphele Ramphele are proof that the DA is desperate to swallow the black masses before elections and in the process remain  being the strongest opposition if not the ruling party post  2014 elections. The question of the possibility of such transformation remain dubious as the DA is currently running at a loose of supporters with in the Western Cape following the service delivery protests in 2013.

Like before, we remain in question of whether this marriage of convenience will survive. They say there can only be one bull in a kraal and evidently Ramphele is no submission lady or so we think.

Insights however continue to differ amongst citizens. To many the ANC reminds them of how Jacob Zuma built his luxury harem in iNkandla, with its swimming pool, helipad, electric fence for his herd of cattle and that bunker for him to hide with millions of taxpayer’s money, in the aftermath of his myriad failures in leadership. As much as they love the party, the idea of Zuma being a part of its leadership defeats their interest.

To some though, this is possibly a game changer. Another view could be- Within this alliance/ platform/ acquisition, lie all the right credentials that can actually appeal to a wide margin of people. It has a nice alignment, because they seem to all have goal congruence and as such have more in common than the people sitting within the ANC, which is believed to be a "broad church", which constantly devours itself from conference to conference because each grouping has a different agenda.

Furthermore, it’s quite possibly the first time we can say that a party is a "rainbow party". As you know the colours of the rainbow actually complement one another (as this grouping seems to do), and do not seek to overpower one over the other, or even repel. Another question though is whether   the "Federal Alliance" within the DA supports this with their wallets?

Amidst all the unanswered questions and confusion, personally I still believe that the time has come for all those with influence - in Education, Sport, Film & Radio, Business & Industry to come out - selflessly and very vocally - and stand firmly behind any party that embraces an idea of a new South Africa. This country desperately needs clear, decisive, intelligent, selfless leadership to ensure that the South Africa Mandela fought so hard for realises its potential and its people are given economic equality where each and every person can aspire to and acquire an education, the opportunity to work in a safe environment and to leave the world a better place for their children. All this is possible but it needs a mind-set change at the Ballot Box come elections. Each and every South African needs to think about what is best for the country and who will deliver it. The ANC government who has now been in power for 20 years OR a party brought together with the mind-set of changing the failures of this government, realising and delivering the opportunities that are tangible and within the reach of each and every ordinary South African.

Indeed this is a game changer, this turns the voting table into another direction of new possibilities and whatever the outcome is, as citizens we are the ultimate decision makers. We are the ones who put them in power; we are also the ones who remove them when they no longer serve us.

There is little that we can conclude on as we are still fumbling in election guesswork and nothing much. But as we move towards the great event, I would encourage every citizen to start engaging in matters affecting the future of our country. In taxes, buses, hospitals, schools, let’s create a national dialogue that will challenge convictions of those who are or to assume power. This is just the beginning of much ahead.

I hope you are ready!

The Unheard Voice of Umakhwapheni.

Sexual infidelies are one of many features contributing towards the dysfunctional structure of our society and demoralisation of the marriage-family institution as a whole. In a nutshell, one can reach a careless conclusion that almost all marriage or relationship failures, atleast 90%, are as a result of irresponsible sexual behaviour or adultery of one partner between the two. Yet nobody has ever bothered to hear the mistress’s side of the story. Over the summer holidays I was fortunate enough to come across a “brave side-chick” who in a way managed to unravel the unknown yet very much abhorred mystery behind transactional relationships.

 Umakhwapheni, Side-chick, Mistress, 250, Flex-lady, iNkazana, Cheque madam, Third-leg and so the list the goes on. We have branded them with names and have passionately lived to either hate or love them- they are that third unknown lady in that relationship or marriage who is always blamed for the male partner’s unfaithfulness yet she remains unknown in all her operations. It bothered me to realise that I, like many others have never heard this mysterious character’s side of the story. The Why, How, What and Wheres.

 On this Saturday evening, my opinion gets challenged oncemore as I meet with lady, Precious Mazibula, Age 25, Kwazulu-Natal born  (original identity changed to protect individual) who out of her own will decides to unpack the lifestyle of a side-chick and narrate her life journal to me of how she ended up in her imperilling life situation.

Precious is one of over a thousand hopefuls who flock into Johannesburg yearly in a quest for a better living. She left her poverty stricken home in Eskhawini; Kwazulu-Natal to pursue her Sound Engineering studies in the city of gold, where dreams are lived and opportunities limitless. In her second year of studies, her father, a farm-worker who was also a bread winner at home unfortunately passed away. This to Precious meant, she had to look for alternative funding to cover her tuition or else drop her studies and go back to be a liability to her almost 50 year old sickly mother who was now a widow and guardian to her 5-year old son.

After finding herself between the devil and the deep blue sea, she decided to use the little skill she had acquired by playing in local gigs around Jozi- this is where she met Nimrod aka Dj Ooze (original identity changed to protect individual) a renowned money maker who is known by the whole of South Africa and celebrated by many for being a success in the much male dominated Dj community.  “It all started with a one night stand. I was naïve I know but he was exactly what I needed at the time. I knew of many girls who wanted Nimrod and never had a chance. I saw an opportunity and I used it” said shameless Precious. This was the beginning of her ‘lights out’ life- that first night was a doorway to her anonymously becoming a part of the infamous DJ’s life who at the time was all over tabloids and gossip columns celebrating his newly wed wife. That to Precious meant absolutely nothing as she, according to her, knew her place and had no business interfering in Nimrod’s domestic affairs.

By now, our conversation was getting closer to the core and I had to be very sensitive in how I handled her, the trick was to assure her of my trust and make her as comfortable as possible. With that being achieved, she continued to divulge details of this private ‘love’ affair.  A rail of questions came to mind and I could not help but wonder how this affair benefited her financial ordeal. She then disclosed a huge sum of money that was apparently deposited to her account as a first of many tokens of ‘appreciation’ to follow for being ‘a good girl’. When asked how she reacted to this, she responded; “At first I was shocked, then I decided to keep calm because I had never told him of my situation. He just kept it coming. So who am I to stop a generous man?” (chuckles). It became clear to me that Precious had calculated her moves very well; she did have an idea of what she had gotten herself into and decided to enjoy the transactional side of it.

How can a supposedly well groomed KZN girl end up in this disgraceful situation? How dare you Precious! Didn’t she have other choices? Isn’t she ashamed of being a marriage wrecker? Does she have no shame? These are some of few selfish questions that were bubbling from my judgemental inner self but I had to quiet them and learn to contain myself as something authentic in this lady kept me longing for more. I set there as she unloaded details of many other nights and how she continued to live off the married Dj’s pocket. I couldn’t help but wonder though if she was aware of the possibility of her sharing this man with many other girls. To my surprise she knew that Nimrod didn’t belong to her and could leave her for another Precious any day, any time. Clearly, this young lady had sold her soul to the devil game and swallowed her conscience in the process.

I am not sure if you are aware that Precious wants nothing to do with Nimrod’s wife. She doesn’t want to end his marriage with the beloved wife. She also said nothing about wishing to wear the Mrs hat. No! Yet, society will blame her should this affair come to the public. Chances are she will be victimised and Nimrod will smooth talk his way to forgiveness. No one will know her story. She will be remembered as the immoral KZN young woman who destroyed what was once built in wonderful matrimony. No one is interested in her story.

I hope you are not under the impression that I am condoning neither Precious nor Nimrod’s lifestyle, this far my opinions don’t matter much. Statistics have proven though that within the human species, females dominate their male counterparts in numbers. Could this mean, females will at some point share a male companion? If not, how will this population imbalance be met then? I wondered in silence if dear Precious knew of other side-chicks who were also in the same game as her. Although she didn’t give much details as I could see from her body language that she was reaching her point of discomfort, in a way she did hint of how rapid this lifestyle is amongst many girls in Johannesburg. So, where are the madams then? Did Nimrod ever talk about his precious wife to dear Precious? Well, he did and this is what he had to say about his darling wife; “I love her. She is my wife but too dignified and less adventurous for my needs. There are things she wouldn’t agree to do. Things you would do with such pleasure [referring to Precious]…”.Could this then mean Nimrod jumped the infidelity line because the wife was incompetent in her position or did he just prefer variety? Wouldn’t it be unfair to blame all of this on Precious?  Would I be biased towards the wife if I said anyone would strive to satisfy his needs with a fat pay cheque waiting in the far end? What can one make of this situation?

Surprisingly,  when I questioned Precious if she was aware of how she has exposed herself to sexually transmitted diseases, she responded by saying, “Ofcourse I am aware of that… but who isn’t going to die? The only difference is that I might die of a disease whilst you might die of tragedy”. This to me was a veil removal moment. It was revealed at that very point how poverty and lack had driven this potential future leader to opening herself to a possibility of dying before her time just to put bread on her table. I couldn’t help but wonder how many girls in Johannesburg had chosen this path. It could be my sister, your niece or daughter. I shuddered as reality was in my door area- I then realised that much is happening in our society that we are completely ignorant to. I couldn’t help but put myself in her shoes and wonder if I could’ve been a better person facing the same situation. Could I? The truth of the matter is, there is always a choice. Precious also had a choice and each one would have led to different consequences. Perhaps you are thinking, she could have looked for a job. But have you realised how easy we say one must look for a job yet knowing how difficult it is to get a decent job in these recessionary times? I am neither supporting nor bashing Precious here but I am opening your mind to a whole lot of possibilities we never consider.

One thing I know for sure is that adultery or cheating are unjustifiable wrongs but how to draw a summary in this context remains a mystery to me.  Incase you are wondering what happens to Precious, well she continues living the unknown night life as she banks from the ‘generous’ man’s pocket and send money home to her mom and son. Granted an opportunity though, she would love to live a decent life and further her studies as she had initially planned.  But life gave her lemons and she made a recipe out of them. That Is her reality and a reality of many other woman who are living in shame because of how judgemental we have become as society, how we have turned a blind eye towards men like Nimrod in our communities or of how well accepted men infidelities are.

To the dear wife, I can’t help but worry about your state in this situation. It saddens me that you remain faithful yet so exposed at the same time.  Chances are you might never be aware of the life you have lived unknowingly. They say the two become one right? I also feel pity when you call the other woman, Precious, names because she, like you was pursued by your man. Can’t you see the pattern here? Can’t you see how ashamed she is beyond that brave smile and careless attitude? Wait, did you even pay attention to her?  It could be your sister of daughter for all I know and you would never know.  That short revealing dress and heavy make-up should tell you something about her broken self. Yes, she is a side-chick and I am not asking you to befriend her but before you go to her house and attach her, before you embarrass her in public, take a pause and ask yourself if you have considered paging her Chronicles because like you, she is a victim.

To all side-chicks living and enduring life out there because of your inescapable life conditions, sisters be strong but know this, there is always a way out. That choice to walk away is still there. It’s all up to you. In all you do, consider the consequences. It’s not me wishing you bad luck, it is just a life principle- every action has consequences, whether good or bad.

To my brothers, the Nimrods out there, I will not say much. As you continue to widen the circle, remember this; there will come a point where the circle is too wide for you to manage and within that will fall your daughter. Her reasons for tagging along will be different all together but because of your emotional absence, she will need affection from other men like you to fill that void. You choose.

To you reading, as I learn, I hope you also learn to look at each situation from all possible sides before drawing conclusions. Society has such double standards and it takes a special eyes to see right through it. I hope you get that special eye.

The jumbled mind-set of a Born-Free.

January 17th, roughly a few months before SA national elections take place, the majority of voters are still occupied with thoughts of uncertainty, antagonism and discontent with the current state of our country and by large, the administration of governance. As a 25-year old civilian and liberal I couldn’t care less about the infinite opinions towards our government and how ruthless the politics play ground has become. What petrifies me the most is what is viewed as the cynical and naïve mind-set of my peers that has oddly transformed them into critics of note towards the current government fiascos. Their qualified opinions are believed to have strangely alienated them from becoming active in socio-economic transformation and  blinded them from the much upfront reality of upcoming elections. Suprisingly though, none of the inventors of this notion have attempted to live for a moment in the exclusive world of born-frees.

Voluntarily, I took it upon me to engage with a couple of these youths who have effortlessly given up on the South African dream.  During some of the dialogues I hosted with natives from different walks of life, I was confronted with a loud alarming knockdown of how disinterested and disappointed the youth of this country is in our government. To them an answer to the ‘What Is going to Change?’ question remains concealed within some of many answers  our government has failed to provide.  The core of their reasoning is how they have been practically excluded by government which then according to them justifies their offhand attitude towards a leadership that neglects their views and voices. Having said all, what unplugged me now and again from the heat of these dialogues was how prepared they were not to cast their vote at all. Bluntly, they couldn’t careless who wins and who doesn’t- to them it’s another event in a new year and nothing beyond that. How the result of these elections is going to affect them is none of their concerns.

 This led me to a fetter of endless questions about government in conjunction with the views of these capable future leaders. Somehow I zoned into memory lane and thought of the youths of generations before me who in their collective sacrificed the very essence of their being towards a struggle that aimed at liberating the youth of my time.  The cries of Steve Biko and how if alive, would stiffen in disbelief of how soon we have forgotten and seem to have thrown the towel in silence echoed in my mind. I questioned myself and in my imaginative wondered if the future will really be a better place than today. I couldn’t hold together the groan in my voice and the puzzle in my mind- to me being in my youth today is far more than a privilege, it is a blessing, it is a dream come true to the one freedom of a black child seemed like a dreamlike possibility, and it is an achievement to the one whose goal was to seek equality and freedom for a black child of my time. To think that TV Soaps, fashion trends and gossip columns make better sense to born frees than the current and future state of our country, let alone the details but the framework itself, numbs me. There seems to be no motivation at all for political activity.

 After my surreal moment with reality, I had to sober up and look at possibilities that could be contributing towards this sheer ignorance. It is no doubt that our government has done a remarkable work over the years in plastering transformation and clearing the wide footprints that were left by the ruthless monster that fed from bloodshed and oppression of anti-whites for centuries. We ought to first acknowledge and appreciate that before anything. However, it is also a saddening reality that in years closer to the 20-year celebration of our democracy, corruption has thriven and ignorance of many cries of our nation has prevailed.

Inkandla Fund is one of many scandals that have injected venom to our spanking new born baby- Democracy and untidily left a devastating after effect to many citizens. Amongst many of these scandalous episodes was the staggering delivery of textbooks where civilian’s enquiries were silenced with a dark tape of ‘no account’. Following that, the NYDA also took a share of publicity with an ordeal  that surrounded mismanagement of funds whereas prior to that our space was unexpectedly invaded by visitors, the Guptas and even then, nobody bothered to account- it was all  his and hers till silence.

 Eventhough these episodes might have been a result of poor leadership by a few individuals, to ordinary citizens who by the way  voted in this government, it seemed like a deliberate chain of negligence by the ANC.  In as much some might argue and say the ANC is an organisation not an individual, the reality is those individuals are decision makers and hold directive of where this nation is heading. The ignorance and insult of our intelligence by the government whilst attempting to give account for these happenings left many thoughtful of the idea of voting-in an alternative government. It all seems like we are told what is assumed by whoever plays the guitar to be proper information for the public and not the truth. One would swear that our government lives by the ‘Feed Them Lies Till They Drop’ policy. This whole catastrophe, defiled the initial purpose of our; ‘The People Shall Govern’ constitutionally driven democracy. It shouldn’t have come to this, we shouldn’t be talking like this at all, not now, our darling Democracy is far too young for all this but sadly we have arrived.

Frankly, the born frees have been exposed to the dirty laundry of their fathers, who themselves couldn’t care any less. Yes, this Nkandla and Gupta series seemed quite hilarious at some point and we all vented our frustrations on social platforms and communities of engagement but at the end of it all, each one would go back to their individual nest and be consumed by the perturbing thoughts of what tomorrow has in store. Could be it blacks have lost confidence in their own government, the very government they cheered with praises in 1994? Could it be that the beloved ANC our fore-fathers dearly lived and died for has turned against us? What is to make of this?

 The past year was not only flared by scandalous episodes, the nation also saw a couple of political surprises. First, it was the formation of AGANG as led by former activist and academic Mamphele Ramphele who put almost everything at halt with her ‘gangnam style’ announcement of forming a new party  , following that was the controversial birth of EFF by former ANCYL President  who had since been dismissed from the orgisation, Julius Malema. The reaction of the majority of South Africans left much to be desired though. The reception that these parties were given by citizens was a clear indication that the notion of considering an alternative government was sinking in faster than we assumed. Aside from these formations were usual oppositions to the ANC;  COPE and DA who also in their unique way were making their presence sensed. The  possibility that the ANC could be losing supporters is just indigestible.

 Ironically, none of these parties truly considered the stance of born frees in this country. It seems like politicians are ignorant to the fact that a large number of our youngsters will be voting for the very first time this year (in a case where they choose to vote), but somehow that doesn’t seem to tip priority to neither of these parties.

 Although some might disapprove, I too consider myself a bor- free. I started schooling in the new dispensation of  democracy and was never in any direct way subjected to racial laws. The prophesy of doom by those in power today about the reckless and irresponsible leaders  we are going to be in our time can be sequenced with the shaky current state of our leadership. It might or might not come to pass but the unforgettable break outs of the present will indeed affect the future. These Nkandla and Gupta gates will be sins these born frees will have to account for. This daily suffering rand that seems not to bother anyone will be upon the shoulders of the future leadership. Yes, born frees do not seem interested, because corruption and lies do not spell interest at all.

 South Africa is currently tackling endless socio-economic challenges due to decisions that were made centuries and decades ago. The ignorance then by those in power today on the long lasting effects of decisions they make today worries the bottom off these born frees. The questions that quarrel their mind space are; who is going to take over and do what? What will be my role in the then government and what is being done presently to motivate my non-existent political participation?

 The damning  reality though is, if these born frees, who by great opportunity would be casting their votes for the very first time this year decide not to vote, the badge of few political leaders or none whatsoever for the so near  future will be more visible than yesterday. Government needs to consider a more active and relevant training ground that will inspire these youths to spiral political transformation in this country, but again, how is that even possible in a government with youth leagues that hardly interact nor strike relevance to the BBM youth of today? How will then these two powers reach synergy if they come from such extreme schools of thought? Who will teach who and how? The little interaction that seems to take place in June 16 only is not enough to inspire new thought in one’s mind. What will our children’s children live to tell? The story of a hard achieved democracy that landed in the hands of self-absorbed leaders or will they pride themselves of a nation that passed a baton of good governance and exemplary leadership to generations after them? What will be told?

 With the little of time that is left, I do hope that the popular saying that the future of this generation is in its own hands can really hit surface and challenge new thought to our leaders. Lest the prophecy of doom manifests itself.

Are you LIVING or EXISTING?

“Are you Living or Existing…” this line was extracted from one of my all-time favourite movies “A Family that Preys”.  Although this is just a line from another movie as many might think, to me it carries so much sense and in its being inspired me to scribble down the following words.

Of many things that keep me awake at night, the question of whether I will die having fulfilled my purpose and tapped into my destiny tortures me day in and out. Over the past 25-years my life, I have learned that life has no guarantees and that every day is a countdown towards an unknown deadline- I have seen people I loved and cared about die right in front of my eyes without them living to fulfilment that which they were destined to be. I have watched the old die of sudden sickness, infants of unknown diseases and the youth paraded by tragedy- Frankly I have seen death rob the world of souls that were destined for nothing less than greatness, individuals who without doubt were going to be agents of change, influence and healing in this sickly society of ours but sadly they disappeared right in front of our eyes like mist. One of my favourite authors Myles Monroe states that thee richest place you’ll ever find on earth is the cemetery in your neighbourhood where lies unread  books, unsung songs, unheard  multi-billion business concepts and future leaders who were never afforded an opportunity to play their role. This in not so many words echoes the isiXhosa saying that “Isitya esihle asidleli” (the good die young).

With all that reality at our disposal, we somehow still live prolonged lives with postponed agendas as if we have indemnity of how long we are going to live. I am not against the idea of planning but I have a problem with sacrificing the privilege of the present for the unknown and unguaranteed tomorrow. Life is like travelling by bus to a destination known by the driver only. The beauty in this journey though is that in each city or town along the way, you are presented with an opportunity to enjoy yourself, have fun and experience new things. The choice to either enjoy yourself, dance and laugh or silently seat still till destination is all dependent on you.

So the daunting question of whether I am living or just existing deters me from living a life of obscure standards, mediocrity and regret. Whilst I am still here, I choose to be dancing, singing, laughing, influencing and learning on my way to my destination because at the end I will reach a day whether in my youthful glory or in my grey hair and wrinkled face where all that I am and all that makes what I am will shut down and release my soul to the next life- whether ready or not, whether wide awake or fast asleep.

The following are some but few of the people who were dear to me who reached their destination unexpectedly in the joyful days of their youth.

Thabang Mkhwanazi- Believed he was born to be an advocate. A young change maker dedicated to the betterment of his people whom I was privileged to meet in one of the seminars I attended a few years back. In 2013 he unfortunately was mugged, stabbed to death and found mutilated in his neighbourhood days later. He never lived to argue his first case.

Chriselda Williams- A young spirited dreamer who had ambitions to be a radio DJ in one of our national radio stations in South Africa. She was a loving soul who at 23-years was diagnosed with breast cancer- they said it was too late for chemotherapy. She died in her hospital bed five months after her diagnosis 14 April 2010. The airwaves never got a chance to release her sweet voice to the world.  Death silenced her.

Zimkhitha Mayathula- A dear friend to me who was also my classmate at university. She had dreams and ambitions to be a media practitioner like me and others. Like Chriselda  in 2009 she suffered death prematurely after being diagnosed with a rare disease I had never heard of, Lupus. She was ony 24-years. She also died fighting for her life just 2-months after her diagnosis.  She never made it to her first day in the news room.

Nick Govender- An activist and liberal whom I believed was going to a member of parliament someday. I met him during my debating years at university. Whenever I looked at him, I was challenged to be a better person. Did I tell you that in 2009 he was tragically killed whilst driving his new machine just four weeks before his wedding day? He never got a chance to see his beautiful bride walk down the aisle, remove her veil and kiss her rosy lips. He reached his destination before that day.

Nozibele Selela-Nzawumbi- My  dear mother, a career woman who had dreams to see me and my brother grow into remarkable and responsible men. I loved her with all that I am and connected with her in ways I fail to describe- she and I were once connected in her womb and that connection never faded. She died at 29-years in a tragic car accident in 1997. She never got a chance to look one more time, smile one more time, hold her children or even see me on my graduation day. Death decided to brand her Deceased.

Recenty, I was staggered after learning about the tragic death of a dear friend and visionary, Thembi Losi, she drowned whilst on holiday in Mozambique last summer. She was only 22-years old-a recent graduate who left everyone she came across with confidence that the future had capable leaders. In one of her interviews as published by Allan Gray she said; “I will pursue a Master’s Degree in Development and Economics in the United Kingdom or at the Paris School of Economics in France…”   As sad as it is, she never wrote the first line of her Masters dissertation. Death closed her chapter.  

All these remarkable men and woman died in the course of planning for the future. They all lived lives that left a trademark. Even though death surprised them and others who knew them, they had atleast started living. Most of them had already found their purpose and were marching towards dear destiny with it, some had just begun. They all had dreams of a lifetime but suffered violence and sickness in such a few years of their lives.

So while I approach the minute of the unknown I might as well start living and not just exist. When you live, everyday matters, every situation is a lesson and every event is an opportunity to love, smile learn, forgive, embrace, influence and laugh a little bit more.  I have no doubt that God has invested so much in me- so much that the world has not yet seen- I also have no doubt though that He also holds the stopwatch whether I have explored all those investments or not when the time comes it shall be so. His plans are undisputable and His ways mysterious.

Living is acknowledging that life is a privilege, not an entitlement- in that so, it can be taken any minute. You live responsibly and caringly. You cherish the idea of sharing your life with others, try new things and live in the moment.  Have you ever wished you could go sky diving, bungee jumping, Ice skating, Hiking or have worked hard and always wished you could travel the world? Have you ever wished you could just go to a foreign land where nobody knows you and cares about you and LIVE? I have. If so, chances are you haven’t yet lived yet, you have been existing all along.

When I die, I want to die empty and tired like Tata Nelson Mandela. I still want to live, I still want to discover all the treasures my creator has stored in me. As per my name, I want to be a living GIFT to the universe. I want to touch the world, blow kisses to Mother Nature and feel her fresh aroma around me. I want to see ten generations after me and see them set standards for generations after them. I want to be remembered, yes I do, not as a perfect man though but as a creature who knew how to live for a lifetime in a moment despite his imperfect state. I want to be remembered as a young man who tried, concurred, messed up, fell down yet stood up and continued with the journey. I refuse to just exist; every day to me is an opportunity to seize and empty myself to the world.

Whatever plans you have today, whatever future prospects, in whatever you occupy your space with, whatever mission or vision you choose to dedicate your life to, remember to please live for a while because life is nothing but a gift from above.

So once in a while you need to forget about losing your dignity, forget about your job title or class in society, forget all that you have or do not have. Do what makes you happy. Take a road trip to an unknown destination and be on the driving seat this time around, go to a foreign land and learn new ways to life, try new foods, new dances, speak  new languages, meet new love,  laugh till you drop and come back to your routine life- by then you would have atleast attempted to live and not just exist.

While you’re still contemplating about it, remember, tick-talk, tick-talk, tick-talk.

Now tell me, are you LIVING or just  EXISTING?