It is ironic that in the same week that commemorates the murder of Chris Hani 23 years ago, South Africa once again has returned to an uncertain and potentially highly divisive period in its political development. Hani’s assassination came close to not only undermining the CODESA negotiations at the time, but threatened to heighten racial tensions and scar the society in the process. Ultimately, it was outstanding leadership that brought South Africa back from the precipice – and given the seminal role of the ANC during this period, it was precisely ANC leadership that preserved the democratic process. Two decades later, South Africa faces another crisis. You can blame every external force you want, but poor policy formulation, execution and a debilitating adherence to ideological myopia has resulted in our economy underperforming. Frankly, with a 36% unemployment rate (extended figures) and with levels at over 50% among our youth, the situation will eventually place untenable press...

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