PIECE OPINION "PROACTIVE OR REACTIVE?" A REFLECTION ON THE PRESIDENCY'S ATTITUDE TOWARDS ONGOING VIOLENCE By Mbali Shongwe DNA for Africa
For as long as I can remember, I have always had a strong belief in optimism and a trust that the majority of people are naturally inclined to do the
right thing. Whether it's returning lost items or reporting suspicious
behaviour, I assumed it was a universal understanding that performing good deeds contributes positively to our surroundings and would have a meaningful impact when reciprocated. However, living in present-day South Africa has significantly distorted this perception for me. Without even realising it, I have come to recognise the flaws in my utopian view of humanity. Day in and day out, we witness ongoing violence and a general disregard for human life occurring around us. Gender-based violence, branded as the "shadow" pandemic, and gruesome murders have sadly become the norm to the extent that we hardly react anymore to news of group killings or serial rapists.
“Gender-based violence, branded as the "shadow" pandemic, and gruesome murders have sadly become the norm to the extent that we hardly react anymore to news of group killings or serial rapists.”
June 2023 | Collective Action Magazine
93
Made with FlippingBook - PDF hosting