The ANC has ruled South Africa ever since the end of the Apartheid era in 1994. The ANC has a tripartite alliance with the South African Communist Party and The Congress of South African Trade Unions, however each alliance partner is an independent organization with its own constitution, membership and programs. In the 2009 election ANC won the elections again with a majority of 65.9% of the votes. It is considered the left-wing political party and had John Dube as its first President. The ANC was formed on January 8, 1912 to fight against the racial discrimination by the whites against black South Africans. In 1961 the Umkhonto we Sizwe (MK), the military arm of the ANC was formed. The ANC resorted to violence against the government, after protesting in vain for peace. The main goals of the ANC, as listed on their website are: meeting basic needs, developing human resource, building the economy and democratizing the state and society.
Today, even though the ANC played a huge role in bringing racial equality to South Africans, they have been criticized for having corrupt members who pay bribes to big companies, taking kick-backs and giving out lucrative contracts to family members, relatives and friends. It is believed that about 17 ANC candidates vying for office in 1999 were either convicted criminals, standing trial or appeal.
In order for SA to move forward, fight crime and to improve their economy, the government needs to first deal with its fair share of bribery and corruption. This is needed to be able to effectively govern and serve as positive role models to the SA people.
I agree, for the government to begin with laying down an even and fair foundation to build their governement on top of; getting rid of the corruption and unjust that they have.
ReplyDeleteI find it interesting that all 3 groups have their own constitutions that they follow. Does that mean that if powers change so does the constitution of the people? Also, after investigating SA since at least the beginning of this project, what would you do to change or at least attempt to change the corruption?
ReplyDeleteIn terms of helping the country, it sounds like the ANC has outlasted its usefulness. The ANC had its time to shine and create more equality among the South African people, but now, having been in power for so long, they've forgotten who they used to stand for, the people. Maybe a shift of power is the best way to eliminate the corruption. The question is whether or not there is any group powerful enough to oppose the ANC.
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