Mozambique is at war again. Like most parts of the African continent, it is black brothers and sisters killing each other. The irony is that after displacing colonialists in fierce conflicts that claimed millions of lives, the “independent” black brothers and sisters have turned the guns on each other. NewsDay Editorial
The main reason is none other than the high level of political intolerance pervading the continent. It is a pity that those in power on the African continent have negated their role to build their countries in the spirit of togetherness and chose to plunder whatever the wealth the countries have. They also do not give voice to those with divergent views and opinions. They adopt the if-you-don’t-agree-with-us-you-are-an-enemy attitude. Such leaders do not even tolerate different views even within their ranks. The result is political polarisation that leads to armed conflict, something that can be avoided through dialogue and compromise.
It is not a secret that on our beloved African continent, political intolerance manifests itself when we see vindictive action against persons and groups whose views differ from the leaders. Such leaders have the false notion that “mighty makes it right” always.
It is political intolerance that causes lots of problems in Africa that include tribalism, racism, under-development and at worst, protracted armed conflicts.
What we lack as a people is a culture where dynamic debate and exchange of opinions is encouraged so that we learn from each other to enrich our lives.
We see too much of a Big Brother attitude by those in power. This is made worse by the fact that these “leaders” have teamed up to hijack the African Union to make it a club of people who agree not to tolerate different views from theirs.
Africa is one continent where political rivals avoid each other as if they are avoiding a plague. Instead of engaging each other and shaking hands for the benefit of their countries, they fight. Once in power, most African leaders and the political parties they represent want to rule forever, treating all other citizens who have different views from theirs with open contempt. They even go to the extent of calling them names in public. We might want to blame external forces in Africa for the wars we find ourselves in, but the truth is that these external forces simply take advantage of our intolerance for each other.
We should learn, as Africans, to develop a culture of tolerance, a feat that is not easy for the selfish and bigoted leadership we have in Africa today. Many wars in Africa today can be avoided if we replace the Big Brother syndrome with tolerance.
- Chamisa under fire over US$120K donation
- Mavhunga puts DeMbare into Chibuku quarterfinals
- Pension funds bet on Cabora Bassa oilfields
- Councils defy govt fire tender directive
Keep Reading
Disagreements in Africa stem not from the desire for national development, but from competing political interests.
We believe President Armando Guebuza should engage his nemesis Alfonso Dhlakama for the good of the country. Egos and selfishness will only breed hate and civil strife.
Fighting, we should remember, is internecine and benefits nobody.
