Nelson's Message To South Africa: The Poor Should Not Be Forgotten

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Even on his 90th birthday, former South African President Nelson Mandela who had fought long and hard against apartheid is still fighting the good fight. To mark his 90th birthday, Mandela had a message to give to the wealthy citizens of South Africa.

The nutshell version of the message is that the poor of South Africa should not be forgotten. Mandela said that while there are many wealthy people living in the country, they can do more to help those who are less fortunate that could not overcome the chains of poverty.

“If you are poor, you are not likely to live long,” Mandela explains.

From a person such as Mandela, these words speak in much volume. It was due to Mandela’s struggle that he became an international icon. However, Mandela’s successor, current South African President Thabo Mbeki does not seem to be able to light a candle to him.

Mbeki and ANC President Jacob Zuma have been on the receiving end of much criticism.

Mbeki has been criticized for the handling of his role of the key mediator of the Zimbabwe crisis. He could possibly be removed

Zuma has been accused of grafting. With the accusations aside, Zuma does have criticisms about the handling of Zimbabwe.

Overall, Mandela has given a message that the poor of South Africa should not be forgotten. But the main question is: How will this message be received in South Africa? Of course it will be well received outside of Africa. But South Africa is a different story.