Quote of the week

Such traditions that are culturally embedded in the white, male, Afrikaans culture and history, which are the basis of the Nagligte traditions, do not foster inclusion of other groups that must now form the new majority of the SU student body. Wilgenhoffers do not seem to appreciate the negative impact of their culture and rituals on the personal rights of certain individuals. This is because they elevate belonging to the Wilgenhof group above the rights of the individual.

Report of independent panel on abuses in Wilgenhof men's residence, University of Stellenbosch
13 November 2006

Cosatu, Squires and the SCA

The five judges of the Supreme Court of Appeal must feel rather embarrased this morning after Judge Hilary Squires informed us all that he never said that there was a generally corrupt relationship between Schabir Shaik and Jacob Zuma. But they would not be the first judges to make technical mistakes in a judgment and will definitely not be the last.

It is therefore absurd for Cosatu to call for the impeachment of the five judges involved. Nothing much turns on the use of this phrase and for the SCA judges to have used it, is at most a personal embarrasment for them.

Cosatu’s call is highly irresponsible. Because of the perceived short term political gain, they are castinga spersions on five judges of the highest court in non-constitutional matters. It is inevitable that their silly call will be beleived by some – especially Jacob Zuma supporters and this will undermine the legitimacy of the judiciary.

IT seems to suggest that Cosatu will do anything – even destroying the constitutional system – in order to get Zuma elected president. Once a principles and progressive organisation, they are becoming handmaidens of corruption.

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