Kananelo Boloetse
Growing up in a household filled with books, thanks to my grandmother who was a teacher, provided me early exposure to literature, including Alan Paton’s “South Africa and Her People.” This ignited my passion for South Africa, further nurtured by daily immersion in South African Broadcasting Services (SABC) programs like Lesedi FM’s Morning current affairs show, “Makumane a mona le mane,” and evening broadcasts of “Matšohlo.”
However, reflecting on my early influences, I sometimes question if my perceptions of South Africa were inadvertently shaped by figures like Alan Paton, a white author. This introspection makes me cautious about publicly discussing South African issues, fearing that my views might inadvertently echo a perspective that does not fully reflect the diverse experiences of all South Africans.
I once found resonance in a quote attributed to Paul Kruger in Paton’s book: “Search in your past for what is good and beautiful. Build your future from there.” This sentiment resonated deeply with me at one time. However, as I’ve grown into a youth activist and gained deeper understanding of Kruger’s legacy, my perspective on the quote has evolved.
In the recent national elections held on May 29, South Africa witnessed a significant political shift.
For the first time since 1994, the ruling African National Congress (ANC) failed to secure a majority, falling below both the 50 percent; a threshold required to form a government independently. In response, President Cyril Ramaphosa, often likened to Nelson Mandela in his leadership approach, initiated a Government of National Unity (GNU), mirroring Mandela’s historic efforts to unify the nation.
Just a few days, Ramaphosa announced the composition of his new cabinet, a decision met with scrutiny due to its perceived size and the associated costs to South African taxpayers.
As South Africa enters this new phase marked by a GNU, reminiscent of the early 1990s, it is a time for both reflection and forward-thinking. The country stands at a critical juncture, grappling with complex socioeconomic challenges and aspirations for inclusive governance.
Lesotho knows well the repercussions of South Africa’s political landscape. Economically intertwined, when South Africa faces instability, Lesotho feels the impact. Our currency mirrors the South African rand, so any weakening affects Basotho directly. This underscores our shared economic fate.
Since Lesotho’s first coalition government in 2012, we have learned hard lessons about political unity amidst diversity.
Our journey has been tumultuous, yet we cannot wish South Africa to endure the same. Instead, we should stand in solidarity.
Wishing South Africa well is not just a gesture; it is a commitment to regional stability and shared prosperity. As neighbours bound by history and geography, our destinies are intertwined.
Economic interdependence means that when one falters, the effects ripple across borders. It is a reminder that regional cooperation is not just beneficial; it is essential for stability and prosperity.
Divided, our potential is limited. United, we can achieve greatness. Let us set aside pride and not wish South Africa to go through what we went through. They are our brothers and sisters, and we should at all times, wish them well.
True patriotism, in the context of modern Africa, should transcend artificial colonial borders. The arbitrary divisions imposed on us by colonial powers should not define our loyalty or aspirations.
Instead, we should work towards joining forces with South Africa and the rest of Africa. This will be easier if all these countries enjoy stability within their borders. By wishing instability on South Africa, we are, in essence, delaying the dream of integration.
Across history, we have seen how states that joined forces transcended their individual limitations to become formidable forces.
The European Union (EU) emerged from a region ravaged by wars, uniting nations with diverse languages, cultures, and histories under common economic and political goals.
Similarly, the United States of America transformed from a collection of colonies into a global superpower through unity and shared ambition.
Lesotho, South Africa, Eswatini, Botswana, and Namibia—nations with shared histories and intertwined economies—are well-positioned to lead Southern Africa towards regional integration.