Like many older South Africans, who can be coyly termed previously disadvantage, I find myself at a crossroads this election faced with choosing one of a few unpalatable choices. Do I vote ANC for the party that freed me, inspired my patriotism and made me feel anything was possible in the heady days of the Mbeki presidency and the birth of the African Union despite the large scale looting, theft lies and dishonesty that the Zuma years brought us?
Do I vote DA while holding my nose at the stench of their pro business and devil may care attitude for the poor and dispossessed while concentrating on their ability to run municipalities financially and procedurally well? Is it possible to let go of the lingering sensation that their leader is an Uncle Tom with little understanding of the dynamics of our society and the hurt that still reverberates there from the injustices of apartheid?
Do I vote for the EFF and hide my distaste for their rank and vile populism where all that matters is a soundbite and not wonder whether they are not just a younger more ebullient version of a rotten ANC youth league?
The choices this election are not going to be easy and in my case and most others facing similar challenges it will be a question of perspective. Do I regard that this country is a lost cause in need of new management and guidance? Is it possible that like the prodigal son who has returned home, the ANC has realised the error of their ways and will do better to be the political party I believe, and more importantly the country needs, them to be if we are not to become another cautionary tale about the dangers of liberation movements and power?
