History and electioneering struck a convenient alliance at the Luvuyo Hall in Fingo Village this week, when what was supposed to be the Chris Hani Memorial Lecture later turned into a political rally.
History and electioneering struck a convenient alliance at the Luvuyo Hall in Fingo Village this week, when what was supposed to be the Chris Hani Memorial Lecture later turned into a political rally.
The lecture took place on Wednesday this week, to a packed house, as Fingo residents came out in their numbers. The keynote speaker was Lungile Mxube, the ANC deputy chairperson in the Cacadu region, who began the lecture by explaining how Hani's assassination on 10 April, 1993 had been a turning point in national politics.
It was after that the country had finally adopted democracy. It was the 18th anniversary of Hani's death. "We are gathered here to celebrate the life of one of our fallen heroes," said Mxube, opening his address. "Hani knew our struggle [as black people]personally. He did not need a dictionary to know about our struggle," Mxube said.
Mxube emphasised Hani's stature in struggle history and the leadership role he had played in South African politics, pre-democracy, and his continuing influence after his untimely death. This was just one among many events nationwide commemorating Hani's death, including a wreath-laying ceremony on 10 April, in Boksburg, Gauteng, where Hani is laid to rest.
But Mxube also used the platform to take swipe at local opposition parties and encourage ANC members present to remain loyal with their votes. "President Zuma is correct when he says that when you vote for the ANC, you are blessed, because when you vote for us you will go to heaven," said Mxube.
To chuckles from the crowd, Mxube continued the metaphor: "Don't hitch [a ride with]any car that claims to be going to heaven. It could be taking you to hell." Mxube then shifted focus to his own party, taking swipes at party officials who abused their power.
To cheers, he said: "You elect a councillor. One month after his first pay, he hosts a traditional ceremony. "What is that? Leaders who meet in street corners… and drink expensive alcohol! We want [workhorses], not donkeys." Later, Mxube described the ANC as "the "mother of the liberation struggle".
"If you do not vote ANC, you will kill the party. If you kill the party, you kill the mother of the liberation [struggle]," said Mxube. To conclude the memorial lecture, a councillor candidate for Ward 9 was introduced to the residents.
