A FEW UNWANTED TRAITS IN POLITICS: MY SUBJECTIVE THOUGHTS by Tiisetso Makhele
The following are just a few of the characteristics I have observed which I believe that, if we really want qualitative development of the progressive formations, must be eliminated. These are my own subjective thoughts, and are subject to criticism.
- Fear of intellectual debates
There is a venomous challenge of Cdes who are afraid to debate, and are quick to dismiss those they disagree with through insults or demeaning statements, rather than debate. This culture is also a product of fear of reading, research and science. It is a symptom of political illiteracy and must be eliminated.
- Fear of criticism
There is a tendency amongst comrades, especially elected ones or those appointed in senior positions, to appreciate and receive criticism from others. It is often a symptom of people who have been given responsibilities higher than their capabilities, who lack confidence in their skills, and are often too sensitive to critique. Without critique, we cannot competently advance the revolution because the revolution belongs to the people, not some elected persons.
- Fear of new talent
There is a toxic culture, especially in the Free State, for those who came before to be threatened by emerging revolutionaries in different trades. It is not common to see seasoned writers, for example, supporting and grooming new talent. They would rather try to compete with them, or ensure that nobody is exposed to the work of these new political artisans. This is a devilish tendency and must be spat on.
- Gossip mongering
It is not uncommon, especially in the Free State, for comrades, some very senior, to entertain and rely on gossip, rather than science, in their political work. This tendency breeds opportunistic characters who know that ferrying gossip to lidashipu will give them access to luxury lives.
- Weaponization of genuine gender struggles for nonsense
There is a growing, nonsensical tendency to mistake the gender struggle for petty female chauvinism. Gender is used to silence critical debates as some who don’t appreciate the real gender question apportion any critique to patriarchy. This is nonsense. As President Tambo said, the gender struggle is for all of us. It is intended to ensure that no gender is superior to the other, not to make any gender immune from critique.
- Factionalism
Factions are toxic. They construct lists that give us weak products, making us weak in advancing the revolution. Factions also allow each plotting side to use the media as a platform for unnecessary leaks and smearing campaigns. Rather than criticise the media houses, which often get leaks unprovoked, weist root out the disease of factionalism.
- Gatekeeping
The tendency to gatekeep in order to pose for photographs near lidashipu will derail the revolution. This is also done in the most potent area of political education. Re hloka dithapelo.
Makhele is an African Marxist who writes what he likes
Download Here:
Central News Issue 085Download
Read all our publications on magzter:
https://www.magzter.com/ZA/Central-News-Pty-Ltd/Central-News/Newspaper/All-Issues
_________
Central News also offers Sponsored Editorial Content, Podcasts , Radio / Social Media Simulcast, Video Production , Live Streaming Services, Press Conferences, and Paid Interviews (Video/Audio) etc.
We guarantee exceptional exposure, reach, and engagement, with an excellent return on investment.
Advertisement:
To place your advert on our platforms (Print Newspaper or Digital Platforms) : Please email : sales@centralnews.co.za
For Business Related:
business@centralnews.co.za
Newsroom:
Send your Stories / Media Statements To: newsroom@centralnews.co.za
General Info:
info@centralnews.co.za
Office Administrator:
admin@centralnews.co.za
Whatsapp / Call: 081 495 5487
Website: https://www.centralnews.co.za
Social Media Platforms (@centralnewsza) : Linkedin, Facebook, Tiktok, Twitter, Instagram, Youtube
#centralnewsza #freestate