Opinion & Analysis

The assertions by columnist Xolela Mangcu leave a sour taste in the mouth due to their absurd and scare-mongering nature, Hounding of Zuma recalls an old duel (August 30).

Mangcu makes the bold assertion that Jacob Zuma is being persecuted because he is a political threat.

I would like Mangcu to state whether he believes the National Prosecuting Authority and other arms of the law are no longer independent.

He implies that Thabo Mbeki and Co are involved in a conspiracy against Zuma, a hero of our people, while the likes of Adriaan Vlok are set free through plea bargains.

What I’d like to know is whether Mangcu believes that law agencies are used in political squabbles and can thus be politically influenced.

Mangcu insults our intelligence by suggesting that people of his ilk are independent, yet he vouches for certain individuals in the African National Congress leadership race.

Indeed, Zuma’s rights have been trampled but what I find unfathomable is Mangcu’s suggestion that a “deal be cut with a comrade”.

I am not suggesting Zuma should be hung out to dry but rather that the manner in which we safeguard his rights as a citizen, and as someone who liberated his country, is very important in safeguarding the very democracy he fought for.

This clumsy suggestion of openly manipulating the judicial process can only lead to anarchy where some are protected by virtue of their status and others become victims because they will not have a Mangcu to howl on their behalf.

If this country is going to come out of this saga stronger and more united, our confidence in the ability of the judiciary should not be dented by the likes of Mangcu.

Our judges have thus far shown their willingness to uphold Zuma’s rights where he has been wronged by the state — Judge Willem van der Merwe acquitted him in the rape trial, while Judge Herbert Msimang struck the corruption case off the roll.

Tembile Yako
Windsor East

With acknowledgements to Tembile Yako and Business Day.