The threat to democracy and the constitution comes not only from politicians but citizens. South Africans have become docile and unwilling to make sacrifices.
As a nation we have found a new way to raise objections and think that online rage and calls to radio stations will help our cause.
When last did the middle class in this country join forces with those who take to the streets in protest?
In Hong Kong, students and the public have left their comfortable homes and filled the streets in defence of democracy. Their demonstration tells us that they not only care about their rights but are willing to make sacrifices.
In South Africa, people's power changed the apartheid system that denied the majority their human rights. The black population, in all its class formations, and other racial groups opposed to apartheid went public with their disgust. What has happened since then?
Now we think that Facebook and other social media platforms will serve to change our fortunes. Those in power are cocooned and their arrogance grows by the day.
South Africans should rediscover the spirit of civic engagement.
Pressure should be put on those who fail to deliver services and to meet other public needs. Politicians should know that once the populace stands up it is time to shape up or ship out.
If we adopted such a civic attitude, most of what goes wrong in South Africa could be fixed.
The thousands of people who daily take to the streets across the world prove that civic engagement is the only tool that gets the politicians moving.
The authorities in China, who are used to a timid citizenry, are finding it difficult to deal with people's power.
South Africans should find their civic voices too. It is time officialdom was given a push.
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