Times Of Swaziland: TRUCE AND TRUTH

TRUCE AND TRUTH
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BY CHRIS MORGAN on 08/07/2021 08:09:00


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?