TRUCE AND TRUTH

Where a society has civil insurrection problems – and over the past 10 days we’ve certainly had those – it’s hardly surprising that it dominates the content of daily newspapers.

Perhaps no one is in the mood to read about anything else. As a weekly opinion contributor I have a duty not to shy from expressing a view; which is certainly not an incitement to violence by anyone in any shape or form. When you’re talking you won’t be fighting. Let’s think about that. Someone recently, and rather unwisely, used the word ‘War’. And a form of war – hopefully not to be repeated - was precisely what followed. Yet, as the prominent philosopher of British 20th century history, Bertrand Russell, once said: “War doesn’t determine who’s right – only who’s left.” May I suggest the following immediate measure to bring normality back to this charming little kingdom in Africa:
Trouble requires urgent but productive – not destructive - attention
Restrain yourselves in times of disagreement.
Understand the circumstances and feelings of all groups.
Conciliatory beats aggressive when searching for the way ahead.
Explain your position and needs in a peaceful manner.

Remember that funny little story, where the wind challenged the sun over who could get the guy to take his coat off? The force of the wind went nowhere, as the sun calmly, but effectively, achieved the objective. The world we live in today is hugely different from one as recently as 50 years ago. People see far more clearly how others are living elsewhere. The society that cares, and reacts positively to the need for change is the one that survives. I remember the race riots of 1982 in England. The second generation of immigrants didn’t like feeling marginalised. Today you have cabinet ministers there with names you wouldn’t have been able to say, let alone spell, back in those days. The country adjusted to the needs of its entire people, not just the ones already enjoying a privileged identity and existence. It has peace.

Ensure

But that country, as well as many in the world today, ensures everyone has access to a decent meal every day, free education, free healthcare and a roof over their heads. And a small amount of cash each month if they haven’t got a job. Admittedly those countries had a better start in recent centuries, building up industries that financed the infrastructure and other resources.  Some admittedly benefitted from years of colonial exploitation; though most of those are now helping to make restitution through development assistance and financial relief. A welfare state keeps people contented. Not necessarily very happy, but stable and accepting that always there will be richer people than themselves. I could happily - well, let’s just say contentedly – leave you with the following words – everything flows from faster and shared economic growth. And sharing demands caring; for the welfare of all. But you first have to create that economic growth, and anyone who has lived in this lovely country, must surely nod when reminded of the wasted opportunities. Failing to exploit our natural and other available resources productively and considerately over the past 30 years has left us a long way from the First World status where no one is without the basic necessities of life – food, shelter, education and health support.

Economy

On the other hand, a great deal of thought and effort has gone into the drive to attract foreign direct investment into the country. That is the best way to kick-start faster economic growth. It brings capital, skills, employment and market positioning to this country, and can spawn the growth of local small-scale enterprise. Our biggest draw has been the peaceful, harmonious spirit within liSwati society. We are in serious danger of losing that altogether if dissent, death and destruction become the way of the day. Military power can subdue but does not provide a lasting solution, nor attract investors. Please can the key people, on each side of the fence, appeal strongly for sustained calm and forgiveness, under the assurance that productive discussions on key issues will take place. The validated legitimacy of representatives of the public, showing a peaceful approach to discussion, would ensure the exclusion of ‘mercenaries’ and ‘anarchists’.

If that is done quickly, this country will go whizzing back to top of the charts with fast economic growth achievable. As the corny old saying goes – It takes two to tango. Well, three in this case; we should be receptive to the advice from our partners in SADC. The dialogue wouldn’t be retreating; but advancing in another direction. Failure – even delay - will brutalise the economy, as well as increase unemployment, poverty, deep unhappiness and continuing instability. Implementing the above, and immediately, will provide the best chance of stopping the damage going too deep to heal. Matthew 5:25 reports Jesus as saying; “Agree with thine adversary quickly.” Makes sense?

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