A Call for Accountability: Questions for Africa's Liberation Movements…

As the African Liberation Movements conclude their recent meeting in South Africa, a glimmer of hope remains for meaningful dialogue and action. However, that hope is overshadowed by pressing questions that demand urgent answers. These queries address the core issues surrounding the legitimacy and effectiveness of these movements, which were initially established to ensure true liberation and empowerment for the people of Africa.

1. Recognition as Liberation Movements: Why?

Do these movements still wish to be recognized as liberation movements? If so, why? The term "liberation" carries weight and responsibility. Movements like the African National Congress (ANC) and the Zimbabwe African National Union (ZANU) were once revered for their roles in ending colonial rule. Yet, the failure to transition from a liberation agenda to one of genuine governance raises questions about their continued self-identification. The struggle for independence must evolve into a struggle for justice and equality.

2. The Question of Liberation

How do these movements explain that, many years later, no single country has achieved complete liberation? The promise of freedom and self-governance remains largely unfulfilled. For instance, South Africa, hailed as a symbol of liberation, continues to grapple with socio-economic disparities, racial tensions, and political corruption. The legacy of apartheid still lingers, reminding us that liberation is more than symbolic; it must translate into tangible benefits for the people.

3. Governance and the People

How do they justify the fact that many citizens are worse off than when these movements took power? In Zimbabwe, for example, the economic decline since the land reforms initiated by ZANU has led to hyperinflation and poverty. Many citizens who once hoped for a brighter future now face daily struggles for basic necessities. This raises the question: have liberation movements become synonymous with governance failures?

4. Crime and Corruption

How do they account for the high levels of crime, corruption, and moral decay in society? Countries like South Africa and Nigeria have seen rampant corruption among political elites, leading to disillusionment among the populace. The ongoing scandals surrounding leaders and the lack of accountability only serve to deepen the crisis of trust. True liberation should foster security and integrity, yet many citizens feel increasingly vulnerable.

5. Wealth Disparities

How do they explain the wealth disparities where leaders of liberation movements live opulently while their supporters suffer in poverty? The leaders of some liberation movements, such as those in Angola and Equatorial Guinea, have amassed significant wealth, often at the expense of their people. This stark contrast raises the question of whether these leaders prioritize personal enrichment over the welfare of their nations.

6. Colonial Laws in Liberation

How do they reconcile liberation with adherence to colonial laws and systems? Many African nations still operate under legal frameworks established during colonial rule, limiting true sovereignty. For instance, land ownership laws in former colonies often favor foreign investors, perpetuating a cycle of exploitation. This contradiction undermines the very essence of liberation.

7. Return of Stolen Resources

How do they justify the failure to return stolen land and natural resources to their rightful owners? The lack of land reform in countries such as South Africa, where land redistribution remains a contentious issue, highlights the struggle to rectify historical injustices. Liberation cannot be achieved without addressing the rightful ownership of resources.

8. True Freedom

How do they define liberation when true freedom is yet to be delivered to the people? Many citizens continue to feel oppressed by economic constraints, lack of opportunities, and political repression. For example, in countries like Ethiopia, the quest for ethnic autonomy and self-determination demonstrates that the journey towards true freedom is far from complete.

9. Constitutional Continuity

How do they explain the continued use of colonial constitutions, hindering the establishment of true African governance? Nations like Malawi and Nigeria still rely on outdated legal structures that do not reflect the aspirations of their people. The absence of a cohesive African constitution limits the ability to address contemporary challenges and foster unity.

10. Influence of Superpowers

Finally, how do they justify their continued dependency on superpower nations like the USA, France, and China? The influence of foreign powers often shapes domestic policies, leaving African nations vulnerable to external interests rather than focusing on self-determination. This dependence contradicts the principles of liberation and raises questions about sovereignty.

Conclusion

The African Liberation Movements must confront these critical questions to genuinely fulfill their mandates. It is imperative for them to evolve beyond their original struggles and address the very real challenges facing their nations today. The future of Africa depends on their willingness to engage in honest self-reflection and take concrete actions toward the liberation and empowerment of all its people.

Penned by Head of tuNEWS Editorial

Nixau Kealeboga Gift Mogapi