By Tebelelo Lentsoane
As South Africans navigate the uncertainties and collective anxieties surrounding the outcome of the 2024 elections and the subsequent formation of the Government of National Unity (GNU), it is imperative to reflect not only on the significance of this political shift but also on where it places citizens and public interests. This change in governance is an important and expected trajectory of our growing democracy, and, in some measure, mimics the 1994 transitional period from apartheid rule to democracy.
The witnessing of an end to single-party dominance and the dawn of a new era marked by not having one political party wield excessive power is a logical measure of a healthy democracy. However, it is essential to acknowledge what might be a continuing troubling trend: the gradual relinquishing of power by the citizenry to elected leaders, which has led to a transformation from active participants in the liberation struggle to passive subjects of governance.
During the first democratic election in 1994, South Africans embraced the promise of democracy, eagerly participating in the electoral process to elect representatives who would champion their interests and deliver material improvements in their lives. However, over time, this enthusiasm waned as citizens increasingly became disillusioned with the disconnect between their aspirations and the reality of democracy as a system of governance. One of the most significant manifestations of this shift is the phenomenon of passive citizenship, wherein citizens have surrendered their power to elected leaders.
This phenomenon is antithetical to the very essence of democracy, which hinges on the active engagement and empowerment of citizens. Democracy is not merely about periodic elections; it is about ongoing participation, accountability, and the exercise of power by the people. In democracy, citizens are not passive subjects but active agents who hold their elected representatives accountable, demand transparency, and actively contribute to shaping the policies and decisions that affect their lives.
Unfortunately, the erosion of active citizenship has left many South Africans feeling helpless and powerless when they do not experience the promised benefits of democracy. This sense of powerlessness stems from a lack of awareness of their rights, a dearth of civic education, and a failure to recognise their role in holding elected officials to account.
Crucially, active citizenship transcends party politics and any form or arrangement of governance. Regardless of which political party is in power or part of the GNU, citizens must assert their agency and demand accountability from their elected representatives. Through our constitutional democracy, citizens possess the tools to recall, hold accountable, and review governance throughout the electoral cycle. Politicians are not rulers but public servants entrusted with the responsibility of serving the interests of the nation. When they fail to uphold this responsibility, they must be held to account and, if necessary, replaced.
Echoing the sentiments of anti-apartheid activist Jay Naidoo, “Our freedoms were never won by leaders, they were won because people stood up and said they had had enough. That’s what we need to do right now; young people need to organise themselves for the world they want to see.” This is a great emphasis on the vital role of civic engagement in democracy, particularly among the youth, in shaping a just and accountable society (Global Citizen, 2020). The dynamic and ever-changing political landscape post-May 29 should not deter young people from the crucial task of making democracy work. Instead, it should give impetus to the ongoing struggle for a government that prioritises the interests of the people and equality for all.
In examining the essence of a functioning democracy, we often cite key characteristics such as freedom of speech, equality, human rights, and the rule of law. These are the pillars upon which modern societies are built, yet they were far from guaranteed during periods of autocratic rule or under monarchies. Even throughout the apartheid regime in South Africa, these achievements remained elusive for many. What is particularly intriguing, however, is the striking resemblance between the dynamics of state versus public interaction in such regimes and the current state of affairs in post-apartheid South Africa.
In both state scenarios, we observe unresponsive citizens who feel powerless when their needs are overlooked or neglected by those in power. The critical difference lies in the allowance for freedom to act and push back within the democratic framework. It is essential to appreciate this freedom, recognising that while challenges persist, there exists a platform for citizens to voice their grievances and demand accountability from their elected representatives. The transitional periods in changes of governance should not bring a halt to active citizenry; rather, they should especially be accelerated to meet opportunities presented by these transitional periods for civilians to assert their roles as watchdogs of democracy.
As we celebrate 30 years of freedom throughout this year and reflect on our journey towards equality and empowerment, let us not forget the fundamental principle that democracy is not a spectator sport. It requires the active participation and vigilance of citizens to ensure that the promises of freedom, equality, and justice are realised for all. Let these times serve as a reminder of our collective power and responsibility to shape the future of our nation through active citizenship.
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