By Bongani Nicholas Ngomane
In the tapestry of South African townships and rural landscapes, a poignant question reverberates: What is this democracy?
Defined by the South African Parliament as “government by the people”, democracy, in its essence, embodies the collective will and aspirations of a nation.
But as the sun sets over the communities, casting shadows on the promises of equality and justice, one can’t help but ponder: Is democracy serving the people it claims to represent, especially after 30 years of its inception?
At the core of democracy lies a delicate equilibrium between “might” and “right”. While the state wields immense power, it must be restrained to prevent its abuse.
Safeguarding the balance are independent institutions and a constitution that enshrines the rights and responsibilities of citizens. Yet, in the crucible of South African townships and rural areas, where hope wrestles with despair, the reality often falls short of the ideal.
The “greater period“, envisioned as a journey towards greater equality and balance, feels elusive to many. How long must citizens wait for the basic rights promised by their government? In these communities, where poverty and lack of services are stark realities, the gap between aspiration and actuality widens with each passing day.
In the words of Dalton et al, democracy is a concept with multifaceted meanings, shaped by cultural nuances and lived experiences. Here, in the heart of South African townships and rural areas, democracy resonates as freedom, liberation and human rights. It's a beacon of hope amid the hardships, a testament to resilience in the face of adversity.
However, the invisible faith in democracy, though unwavering in its loyalty, masks a harsh truth. Despite participating in the democratic process through voting, the promised change remains elusive for many. Residents of South African townships and rural areas continue to endure below-poverty living conditions, their constitutional rights violated amid the resilience and optimism that define their spirit.
The discrepancy between constitutional ideals and lived realities is stark. The people of these communities, despite their indomitable spirit, grapple with poverty, housing shortages and hunger. Their right to dignity, enshrined in the Constitution, is too often disregarded, casting doubt on the efficacy of democracy in delivering on its promises.
Yet, amid the shadows of disillusionment, a flicker of hope endures. The resilience and optimism of South African township and rural residents stand as a testament to the human spirit’s capacity to endure and overcome. It’s a reminder that while democracy may falter, the quest for a more just and equitable society must persist.
As the sun rises over South African townships and rural landscapes, illuminating its streets with the promise of a new day, the question lingers: What is this democracy? Perhaps it’s not merely a system of governance but a collective journey towards a more inclusive and just society – a journey that, despite its challenges, must continue with unwavering resolve.
Bongani Nicholas Ngomane is a PhD student at Wits, specialising in applied drama and public performance ethnography. With a Master of Arts degree in Applied Drama: Theatre in Education, Communities and Social Context