ARTICLE: #FEESMUSTFALL IS MERELY THE EARS OF THE HIPPOPOTAMUS*
2016-10-13
The entire country has been watching the drama of student protests over the past few months. Such widespread scenes of protest have not been seen in South Africa since the 1976 Soweto uprising. Historically white universities and their management are particularly unfamiliar with the phenomenon of ongoing student unrest and violence. The damage to property is already estimated at almost R1000m.
What are the causes of these phenomena? And what drives the new youth movement?
Former President FW de Klerk, the Chairman, Executive Director and staff of the FW de Klerk Foundation and its Centre for Constitutional Rights (CFCR) would like to extend their heartfelt congratulations and best wishes to Archbishop Desmond Tutu as he celebrates his 85th birthday on 7 October 2016.
It is with great sorrow that I have learned of the death of former President Shimon Peres. Together with Yitzhak Rabin, he was one of the great peacemakers of our time. He worked tirelessly to promote harmonious relations between Israelis and Palestinians and continued throughout his life and also in his old age to inspire new generations with his vision of reconciliation, justice and peaceful coexistence. He understood that the best guarantee for the long-term security of Israel was the promotion of justice and equity for all.
What is wonderful about Heritage Day (as one of the “new” holidays in the not so new South Africa) is that we can look back and celebrate what we have achieved over the past 22 years. For many it will go back further than 22 years – to our cultural and traditional past – that is also part of our heritage, individually and collectively. “Heritage” means different things to different people.
Thank you once again for inviting Elita and me to your annual hospice ball. I am sorry that we will not be able to join you this evening. However, I know that the FW de Klerk Foundation will be well-represented by several members of our team, including Ms Phephelaphi Dube, Director of our Centre for Constitutional Rights.