DEMOCRACY was built on the power and needs of the people. It has since sold-out to money - the biggest threat today.
For a long time, oligarchs in the garb of democrats pretended to serve the interests of the people. But the veil of deception is lifting. We are witnessing our hard-won democracy collapse into the black hole of the religion of money. This is quite a game - politics.
There are no permanent enemies or friends. Only permanent interests. Our political discourse is now dominated by carefully scripted images and rhetoric most of which benefit those in the corridors of power. Democracy and freedom cannot survive if we continue to accept our current political situation.
Policy makers have achieved political domination in our land through carefully crafted, well-funded, systematic deceit. Those brave enough to stand up and be counted are driven out. Our beloved nation hurtles towards bankruptcy.
The collapse of political leadership is striking. The masses are crying out for smart leadership. Our current democracy is being turned into a nightmare for the majority.
We need to act vigorously and without delay. South Africans deserve politicians of integrity who they can trust and respect.
FAROUK ARAIE
Johannesburg
** The views expressed do not necessarily reflect the views of IOL or Independent Media.