Robert Mugabe's death will always cause a conflict of emotions around the world. He was an architect of the liberation of Zimbabwe, and at the same time an authoritarian leader who drove Zimbabwe to economic ruin. South Africa's political parties issued several widely differing tributes on Friday.
Summarizing the polarity of Mr Mugabe's reputation during his 37 years of rule is a difficult task for any organization. Criticism and praise were delivered alike. Here's what the ANC, DA and EFF have to say about the death of 'Uncle Bob'.
Reaction to Robert Mugabe's death in South Africa
ANC shows mixed feelings
South Africa's ruling party has often clashed with Robert Mugabe, but each president paid tribute to the “fraternal relationship” they shared with the Zimbabwean leader. The ANC praises Mugabe as a “long-time friend” and insists it is still history that will determine whether his legacy is good or bad.
“Comrade Mugabe came to epitomize the “new African'' who threw off the colonial yoke and sought to secure his country's place in the community of nations. He is his long-time friend, inspiration to the ANC and passionate defender of African unity. ”
“While the ANC may have often disagreed with Comrade Mugabe on issues of national interest, as a fraternal organization we hold the principle of sovereignty sacred. Only history can tell whether the actions of our leaders were right. will decide.”
ANC statement
Prosecutor's Office calls Robert Mugabe a 'tyrannical dictator'
However, there was no such attitude from the prosecutor's office. The official opposition branded Mugabe a “tyrannical” dictator with a terrible human rights record. They believe that his legacy has been tainted and that “Uncle Bob” is essentially responsible for the major problems that Zimbabweans still face today.
“President Mugabe oversaw Zimbabwe's emergence as an independent and prosperous republic, but also saw its decline into an oppressive dictatorship that violently suppressed opposition and brutalized civilians. also supervised.
“Zimbabwe and its people have suffered greatly from this decline. The repressive regime left behind by President Mugabe is now being exploited by his former subordinates to continue denying Zimbabweans basic human rights has been done.”
DA statement
EFF praises 'selfless' Mugabe
The warmest compliments have come from the comrades of the EFF and Julius Malema. They ignored the more brutal aspects of the Zanu-PF regime, choosing instead to celebrate Robert Mugabe as a liberation hero. They said the 95-year-old was “brave and formidable” when it came to standing up for his beliefs.
“President Mugabe led a fight against discrimination and selflessness. As a people, we owe many of our democratic freedoms to Mugabe. We stand behind the imperialists and their regime change plans against Zimbabwe. We salute him for his courage and formidable ability in the face of violence. His legacy will bear fruit for Zimbabweans in the years to come.”
EFF statement