The fact that there is a need to correct the wrongs of the past is not in dispute. The inequalities that exist in SA are a direct result of laws that not only discriminated against people based on skin colour, but also dispossessed them of their properties, rendering them paupers in their own country.
President Cyril Ramaphosa has repeatedly assured us that the process to correct the wrongs will be done within our laws and the constitution. This is a move that should be supported by all South Africans, because, when done correctly, it could resolve a century-old land dispute - and promote stability.
But there are forces that have hijacked this noble process to serve their selfish political interests. On one side are the EFF, Black First Land First and the so-called "radical economic transformation" champions in the ANC. While it is unavoidable to talk about race when talking about redress, the racial slurs that are being thrown around with such recklessness can only take the reconciliation project 20 years backwards. One does not have to advocate hate for a particular race to make one's argument.
On the other side of the spectrum are AfriForum and other rightwingers who propagate the lie that correcting the legacy of apartheid and colonialism amounts to reverse racism. Their spreading of propaganda that there is a genocide against whites serves only to create unnecessary tension.
The South African Human Rights Commission says the number of complaints related to racial slurs is at a record high. "Most of these cases involve the use of the 'k-word' and other derogatory comments with racial undertones, such as use of the terms 'baboon' or 'monkey'," the commission said early this year.
In addition to the huge task of cleaning up the government and state institutions, Ramaphosa has another responsibility, that of putting the reconciliation project envisaged by our founders back on track as we celebrate the Day of Reconciliation today.
Irresponsible leaders who thrive on inciting hatred and violence must be condemned as we move towards the nonracial, nonsexist and equal society that many fought and died to achieve. Today is an opportunity for all of us to reflect...