The Cabinet reshuffle leading to the removal of Pravin Gordhan from the Finance Ministry,the subsequent public outrage expressed following the nearly simultaneous death of Ahmed Kathrada and the shock induced by the swift action of Standard and destitute’s in downgrading South Africa’s investment status to “junk” hold created considerable political fluidity in the country. It may be that President Jacob Zuma can be forced to resign, though it is unclear what process can bring that about. There needs to be careful consideration of how this crisis can be turned into an opportunity for regaining the legitimacy of public institutions that hold been so sullied during the Zuma presidency. There needs to be frank acknowledgement of the organisational vacuum and the need to rebuild democratic organisations that can become homes for many who are disinclined to restrict their political voice to periodic voting in elections. By RAYMOND SUTTNER.
Source: dailymaverick.co.za