An angry Swazis nation.. ticking time bomb..
The oppressive nature of our system of government in Swaziland, has just gone too far. I'm a columnist and the communication I receive from a motley group of people who read my articles which are critical of the injustices of the system, is very saddening.
Swazis are not silent. The silence is induced...sometimes brutally.They need an outlet where they cannot only cough out their frustration, but need bold, grassroot leadership that can push their frustration into a juggernaut of a democratic movement that would give the status quo sleepless nights, and induce them to come to the people and engage them in dialogue.
Today, a reader who called me, sounding very emotional, after reading yesterday's article, implored every oppressed Swazi to stand up for their rights, not only for the present generation, but for the future generations, as well.. He said something that triggered a deep introspection, mentioning that if as the oppressed, we could not position ourselves, but hope and wait for a Miracle to come from God..then we might as well applaud the enemy for oppressing us. Position ourselves... act..that gave me food for thought.
The people out there are at the precipice of their tolerance. They are an angry lot..ranting with sheer frustration. The stagnant economy is wreaking havoc on their lives. They are living from hand to mouth. Prices of basic food commodities have doubled..even tripled. The wages they receive are enough to buy bread. What irks many is that they pay taxes, and receive nada in return.
Poor service delivery has become normal. Families of the oligarchs, who have never toiled for a living in their whole life, are beneficiaries of their taxes. The poverty-stricken live on less than a dollar per day, while those who loot public funds with impunity, live filthy opulent lifestyles. It calls for a charismatic voice..a Movement.. An organization..or whatever, to properly channel the divergent frustrations of the people, making the people s united, and one formidable force - remember the Sudan and Arab Spring protest?
As a columnist, I sometimes fear for my well-being for identifying with the suffering of the people, and putting into paper their sheer frustration.
May the progressives find success in their quest to turn things around.
Or else, I fear..if the simmering anger boils over..