FRIDAY BRIEFING | Sell-out or scapegoat: A reflection on Mandela's legacy
It is strange to think that when Nelson Mandela was preparing to be released from prison in February 1990, many were unsure of what he would look like when he emerged. After his imprisonment in 1964, it was illegal to photograph or republish a photo of him. But after stepping out of Victor Verster prison after 27 years of imprisonment, Mandela would become one of the world's most recognisable political figures of the last century.
And while Mandela eventually became instantly recognisable worldwide following his release from prison, not everyone had the same idea of who he was. For some, he was a freedom fighter, to others a a terrorist. Some thought of him as a liberator, while he was a sell-out for others. In some cases, Mandela was even elevated to status of demigod. In a case like that, it is hard not to imagine he would save us.
But 29 years into democracy, infrastructure is failing, the economy is depressed, and unemployment, especially among the youth, is increasing. The dismal state of South Africa has led to a growing chorus that Mandela betrayed his people. When Mandela retired from office in June 1999, his intention, however, was always to hand over the baton to us. Is it fair to blame Mandela for South Africa's failures? Insight and analysis on the big political story of the week, plus a roundup of top columns and most-read stories.
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