By Michael Andisile Mayalo
As the world grapples with the complexities of globalization, nationalism, and social justice, one thing is clear: South Africa will no longer be bullied by external forces. It's time for us to take a stand and assert our sovereignty, just as we did during the turbulent founding years of COSAS and ANCYL.
The recent antics of Donald Trump, the President of the United States, are a stark reminder of the patronizing attitude that many Western nations have towards Africa. Trump's reckless tweets and policies are not only an affront to our dignity but also a threat to our hard-won democracy. It's time for us to tell Trump, in no uncertain terms, to mind his business and let South Africa deal with its affairs.
We are not naive that Trump's actions are not isolated incidents. They are part of a broader pattern of behaviour that seeks to undermine our sovereignty and exploit our resources. The likes of Afriforum, a right-wing group that masquerades as a champion of minority rights are equally guilty of trying to dictate our agenda and undermine our democracy. But we will not be intimidated. We will not be bullied. We will stand up for our rights, just as our forebears did during the dark days of apartheid. We will fight against those who seek to undermine our democracy and exploit our resources. We will assert our sovereignty and defend our dignity.
The time has come for young South Africans to take the lead in this fight. We are the heirs of a proud tradition of resistance and struggle, the products of a democratic dispensation won through blood, sweat, and tears. We must take ownership of our democracy and defend it against all who seek to undermine it.
We will not be swayed by the empty promises of those who seek to exploit our resources and undermine our sovereignty. We will not be intimidated by Trump and Afriforum. We will stand firm, united, and resolute in our determination to defend our democracy and assert our sovereignty. So let this be a message to Trump, Afriforum, and all those who seek to undermine our democracy: we will not be bullied.
We will not be intimidated. We will stand up for our rights, defend our dignity, and assert our sovereignty. We are South Africans, and we will not be silenced. The time has come for South Africa to stand up for its affairs. External forces will not dictate to us. We will not be bullied by Trump and Afriforum. We will assert our sovereignty, defend our democracy, and fight for our rights. We are South Africans, and we will not be silenced.
*Mayalo is an independent writer, analyst, and commentator
*The views expressed do not necessarily reflect the views of IOL or Independent.