Zille has, on numerous occasions, challenged ANC leaders to a public debate on important matters affecting government and service delivery, or lack thereof.

She challenged former president Thabo Mbeki to such a debate, and President Jacob Zuma.

Neither of them was or is brave enough to take her on.

Nelson Mandela did us very proud as a people, from our grandparents to our parents to the youth, when he challenged FW de Klerk to a public debate - and won it hands down. Mandela is an African who knows the importance of debate in stimulating the moral growth of a community; thus enhancing a culture of accountability by those elected to positions of authority by the community.

Debate is observed and practised in most, if not all, African cultures. It is meant to inspire, to build self-confidence and to settle unresolved differences for the sake of building social cohesion within communities. In today's modern society, the role of debate is to demonstrate and defend good governance and accountability, both of which strengthen a nation.

Mandela believed in debate, and we believe in it too.

Where are the brave men and women in the ANC now? For how long will you be afraid of debating with Zille, hiding behind expensive cars, expensive suits and expensive lifestyles?

It is about time you truly inspired us to never be afraid of standing up for the voiceless and all those who believe in nation-building.