July 15, 09:04

Readers Discuss Culture, Migration, Compassion, and the Assessment of Power in Columns

In the 'Letters to the Editor' section, readers shared their thoughts on a range of current topics, including cultural peculiarities, migration issues, the need for compassion, and questions related to power.

Cultural References and Traditions

One author expressed regret over uneducated readers and writers who claim complete ownership even over natural elements such as marigolds, which are used worldwide as garlands. The author noted that such flowers were used in his wedding, as well as in television dramas from India and Pakistan.

The author also mentioned that the expression 'Sita's line,' which he uses to describe 'dangerous borders,' is widely accepted both in Indian folklore and internationally. He emphasized that he draws inspiration from the literature of various religions and cultures, including Greek, Roman, Walt Disney traditions, Hollywood, India, Pakistan, Christianity, Judaism, Islam, and Hinduism.

Citing the advice of Cassius Brutus from Shakespeare's 'Julius Caesar,' the author stated that he is not at fault if some readers criticize other authors, asserting: 'The fault, dear Brutus, is not in our stars, but in ourselves.'

The Complex Reality of Migration

In response to those who continue to condemn protesters against illegal immigration, a series of balanced facts were presented. It was noted that if there is indeed targeted persecution only of 'Black Africans,' this raises serious concern. However, any illegal entry is a violation of the law anywhere in the world.

The thesis that African countries hosted activists opposing apartheid was also discussed. It was confirmed that this is true, but these individuals were exclusively political asylum seekers, not illegal or economic migrants. Furthermore, it was argued that they did not overload countries with millions nor deplete the economies of host nations, as the UN Programme for Education and Training for South Africa and the International Defence and Aid Fund for South Africa provided them and their families with living allowances, legal aid, and educational scholarships.

However, the country hosts 3.1 million migrants, including both legal and illegal ones. The question arises whether the country can afford such a number given millions of its own citizens suffering from extreme poverty, unemployment, poor infrastructure, inefficient healthcare, and collapsing services.

It was warned that if authorities do not take action, the situation could resemble that in India, which has about 5.2 million registered foreign residents, refugees, and expats, as well as about 20 million undocumented individuals. It was also pointed out that not all undocumented persons in South Africa originate from countries that hosted anti-apartheid activists; for example, Pakistan, Bangladesh, and Malawi did not host them, unlike India and many Western countries.

The question arose regarding the consequences if millions of people from non-Western countries who supported activists decide to arrive en masse in South Africa. Critics of the 'compassionate brigade' publishing opinions on 'vigilantes,' such as Lubna Nadwi, were called out for remaining silent about the fate of African migrants in Tunisia, Algeria, and Libya.

In these countries, the practice of auctioning African migrants as slaves in open markets is observed. Although Antonio Guterres of the UN labeled this crimes against humanity, and the African Union condemned this practice, it continues, as does the silence of some 'activists' and groups. One commentator noted: 'For Arabs (Libyan jailers), Black men are no more than animals—they treated the animals better.'

Lessons from the Operating Room

A story from 1991 was recounted when the author was completing a diploma in theatrical nursing at Natalspruit Hospital. A brilliant general surgeon from Ghana worked there. He often told his team that to become a good surgeon, one sometimes needs to listen to the nurse because she has extensive experience working with different consultants.

One night, a patient arrived in the emergency department with a gunshot wound to the abdomen, bleeding heavily. The attending physician could not reach the consultants. The patient was losing blood, and the doctor could not find the source of the bleeding. The author asked him why he did not use a bladder retractor, which could expose the site of bleeding. The doctor performed this, found the source, stopped the bleeding, and saved the patient's life.

This first experience interacting with the Ghanaian citizen left a positive impression on the author. He expected to meet rational and understanding people, but now he cannot understand the hostile attitude.

It is emphasized that the struggle between peoples only exacerbates the situation, as no single country can provide sustenance for the entire world. Each country is responsible to its own citizens.

Power and the Judgment of History

Nations can unleash fire upon smaller lands with merciless precision, bomb ruthlessly, destroying entire cities, turning generations to dust, exterminating the helpless, humiliating dignity, intimidating the weak, and degrading the broken, believing their power to be absolute and eternal.

These powers demonstrate their might to the trembling world, masking cruelty under the concept of necessity. However, behind the roar of destruction and the arrogance of unchecked power stands God, the ultimate arbiter, before whom every tyrant will be exposed, stripped of illusions, and confronted with the weight of their deeds.

At that decisive moment, neither armies nor alliances can protect them, nor can narratives distort the truth—only the cold and absolute calculation of divine justice. Disregarding Almighty God in the equation is perilous, for the judgment awaiting does not postpone nor deny itself. The fall from the height of power to accountability will be as destructive as the destruction previously caused. Humanity can deceive, delay, and deny, but every act of cruelty is recorded outside manipulation, because the illusion of salvation is the greatest delusion, for divine justice neither rushes nor forgets.

iol.co.zaJuly 8, 08:04

Readers Share Opinions on Sports, Water Supply, Energy, and Service Provision

In the 'Penny For Your Thoughts' column, readers shared their views on various social and public issues, including sports, water access, energy matters, and the quality of service provision.

South African Golfers' Achievements

Golfers from South Africa are demonstrating success on the international stage. In the 2026 season, they won seven victories on the DP World Tour. Recently, Michael Hollik achieved his first DP World Tour victory at the BMW International Open in Munich, Germany, closing the game with a win on the last hole with a score 18 strokes under par.

Jurav Premvallal secured his first DP World Tour victory at the Estrella Damm Catalunya championship. His triumph by a margin of 14 strokes is the largest advantage on the tour, excluding major championships. Reader Ant Gordon from Durban North noted that despite the achievements of five other South Africans this year, they are rarely mentioned in the newspaper, and urged the sports editor to cover their successes.

Water Supply and the Role of Groundwater

Access to water is considered a vital resource and the foundation of socio-economic development. Since water scarcity makes life difficult, people are forced to travel long distances in search of this source. Ensuring access to water is a basic human right, and therefore the government must guarantee every citizen a sufficient volume of water.

Despite the efforts of the South African government to meet constitutional requirements, there are underserved communities due to infrastructure and location problems. South Africa is a water-scarce country, receiving only half of the global average rainfall. Therefore, it is crucial to utilize all available water sources, including groundwater, especially in rural areas far from urban water supply systems.

Currently, the Department of Water and Sanitation (DWS), in collaboration with the Rand Water Fund, is transferring boreholes with automated purification capacities (decentralized water treatment plants) and other groundwater utilization projects to ensure reliable water supply in low-income areas. The accelerated access program for unserved communities is part of the Department of Water and Sanitation's efforts to provide sustainable solutions.

Temba Khoza from the Department of Water Affairs emphasized that groundwater is a vital resource in this country, making it critically important to protect the environment to prevent contamination of these reserves.

Criticism of Government and Healthcare

Author Faruk Araei expressed concern over the rise of unchecked military might, which, he argues, dictates the fate of nations by mistakenly equating power with justice. He reminded that history, including the fall of the Roman Empire, the First and Second World Wars, and the atomic bombings of Hiroshima and Nagasaki, serves as a reminder that unlimited power inevitably collapses under its own arrogance.

Alex Tabisher from Cape Town called on medical insurance companies to improve communication. He described his experience of unsuccessful attempts to contact the institution, noting that every incomplete call cost him money. The author suggested implementing categories for short and clear calls, and utilizing local reception points, as patients pay significant amounts but face communication difficulties.

iol.co.zaJuly 6, 11:00

Discussions on Democracy, Accountability, and the Future of Africa in Editorial Letters

The 'Letters to the Editor' section presents various opinions regarding the political situation, social issues, and sporting events in Africa.

Assessment of Law and Order in South Africa

Mohamed Said Pietermaritzburg expresses gratitude to the South African Police Service (SAPS), all law enforcement agencies, private security companies, neighborhood watch groups, community volunteers, and the media for their work during the national protest march on June 30th. He emphasizes that thanks to the vigilance and experience of the security services, the rule of law was maintained, criminal activity was prevented, and public trust in the rule of law was strengthened.

Independent media also fulfilled its vital democratic function by informing the public. The author notes that amid rising global disinformation and censorship, independent journalism remains an indispensable pillar of constitutional democracy. The combined efforts of law enforcement agencies, private security, civil society organizations, citizens, and free media demonstrated the strengthening of the rule of law and the fight against corruption in South Africa.

Critique of the 2026 World Cup

Farouk Arai Benoni believes that the 2026 World Cup will be remembered not for sporting achievements, but for the bitter aftertaste of injustice, arrogance, and political manipulation. Instead of the expected global celebration of unity, the tournament has turned into a theater of humiliation and exclusion. Particular condemnation is reserved for the appeal against the Somali arbitrator's decision, which, in the author's opinion, is a stain on the conscience of world football.

The marginalization of Iranian participants also caused concern, as politics shamelessly interfered with sports, turning athletes into victims of a cynical geopolitical game. The use of visas as a control tool showed that the tournament lacked fairness, and access was determined not by merit, but by political convenience. The tournament, which should have inspired and united, instead alienated and divided.

Call to Action for African Leaders

Malawi President Peter Matarrika returned from a two-week trip to South Africa, where he discussed the immigration crisis threatening to worsen relations between African countries with President Cyril Ramaphosa. The author believes that this approach allows leaders to grasp the depth of the problem and find solutions before the situation escalates into a catastrophe.

Matarrika recalls that in the 1990s, during apartheid, many Malawians worked in South African mines, being well-integrated and peaceful people. However, after the transition to black rule, the situation changed drastically due to the influx of foreigners, leading to devastating crises. The author calls on all African leaders to act decisively rather than shifting blame.

Zimbabwean Presidents Emmerson Mnangagwa and Matarrika deserve praise for the warm reception of those returning from South Africa and the promise to work towards building a prosperous future. Pastor Shepherd Bushiri also supported the repatriation of Malawians from South Africa, promising to provide 10 buses.

Accountability Issues in South Africa

The recent appointment of Dina Pollé as Minister of Social Development has once again raised questions about political responsibility and ethical leadership in South Africa. Pollé's history is well-documented: in 2013, then-President Jacob Zuma removed her from the position of Minister of Communications after corruption, nepotism, and mismanagement were discovered. The then-Public Protector, Thuli Madonsela, found that Pollé had acted improperly and illegally, misled investigators, and allowed unauthorized access to state resources.

Pollé's return to such a sensitive post as Social Development raises concerns, as this department is responsible for protecting the most vulnerable segments of the population. Placing someone with such a controversial management history in this role could undermine public trust in a system already suffering from service delivery failures. The change of minister, the departure of Sisisi Tsholase from this post, exacerbates the problem, raising questions about stability and whether changes are driven by performance or internal political calculations.

While supporters of the ruling party may argue that political rehabilitation is part of democracy, the lack of clear accountability and redress risks normalizing impunity. These concerns are amplified by the fact that previous findings included recommendations for rectifying the situation and recovering state funds, which have not been fully resolved publicly. This casts doubt on President Cyril Ramaphosa's claims of fighting corruption.