Newly appointed South African President Kgalema Motlanthe has sent out a Rosh Hashanah and Yom Kippur message to the Jewish community. This is the first time that I can recall such a message being issued by the presidency. It is clearly a sign that this new administration is committed to restoring the inclusive stance of the pre-Mbeki ANC. I have serious reservation about Mothlanthe and the people around him, but this renewed attempt to reach out to all South Africans (Black and White) does bode well for the Jewish community and the country.
| The celebration of Rosh Hashana is more than just the celebration of the Jewish New Year. It is a moment of renewal. It is the renewal that comes from having earnestly sought forgiveness. It is the renewal that comes from remembrance and the review of history. During these, the first two days of the Jewish month of Tishri, it is appropriate to seek renewal as one calls to mind the many moments of Jewish suffering in the long history of human kind. The renewal that comes with Rosh Hashana must also make us, as a South African government and nation; proclaim to the Jewish community that you have earned your place in the South African nation as equal citizens, where we uphold, as we do for all South Africans, the freedom to enjoy both shared and unique rights. On the occasion of Rosh Hashana, we are committed to living together in peace and harmony with our Jewish brothers and sisters. May you be inscribed in the Book of Life. Issue by: The Presidency |
It would be interesting to know who wrote it. At least we can be sure it wasn’t Ronnie Kasrils!
Well, that must be one be the weirdest Rosh Hashana message that I have ever seen...
So what did The Jews to earn their place in South Africa as equal citizens??
Posted by: BLACKLISTED DICTATOR | October 05, 2008 at 17:54
It seems that The SAJBD might have put in a good word for South African Jewry. Didn't Zev Krengel's predecessor effectively rubbish Tony Leon's "toilet speeches" ( probably written by Joel Pollak??)
Btw, if you don't vote ANC, your citizenship might have to be revoked. You had better keep shtumm if you are in love with Helen Zille.
Posted by: BLACKLISTED DICTATOR | October 05, 2008 at 17:59
"one calls to mind the many moments of Jewish suffering in the long history of human kind".
Yes, and we are going through it right now through the Satanic international campaign to destroy Israel that the ANC/SACP is such an enthusiatic player in.
So I personally hope that the next year sees the implosion of that montrosity called the ANC.
Posted by: Gary | October 05, 2008 at 19:39