Former parliamentary speaker Nosiviwe Mapisa-Nqakula expressed her gratitude to the uMkhonto weSizwe Military Veterans Association (MKMVA) for allowing her to speak at a public ANC event for the first time since her arrest last year. This event marked a significant moment for Mapisa-Nqakula, who had been subjected to the ANC’s step-aside rule due to criminal charges against her. The rule prohibits party members from speaking at public gatherings, attending rallies, or holding government positions.
Mapisa-Nqakula is currently facing 12 counts of corruption and one count of money laundering for allegedly receiving R2.5 million from a former South African National Defence Force contractor during her tenure as defence minister. Despite these challenges, she was given the opportunity to speak at the memorial lecture of Gertrude Shope, a revered struggle stalwart and former president of the ANC Women’s League.
During her speech, Mapisa-Nqakula expressed disappointment at some ANC leaders who had left the party to join the uMkhonto weSizwe party led by former ANC president Jacob Zuma. She urged her comrades not to give up on those who had made the decision to join the MK party, emphasizing that uMkhonto weSizwe’s true place was within the ANC.
Despite the turmoil within the party, Mapisa-Nqakula reaffirmed her commitment to the ANC, stating that she would remain a member until her death. She emphasized her unwavering belief in the values of the ANC and its role in shaping the future of South Africa.
ANC Secretary-General Fikile Mbalula cautioned members against focusing on those who had left the party to join the MK party, describing them as individuals who had “stolen” the ANC’s legacy. He emphasized the need to focus on strengthening the ANC and supporting its war veterans.
The ANC’s decline in KwaZulu-Natal during the 2024 elections was attributed to Zuma’s popularity and the emergence of the MK party, which garnered significant support in the region. ANC Veterans League deputy president Mavuso Msimang expressed concern over the party’s decline and emphasized the need to address the issues that had led to the formation of Zuma’s party.
The ANC Women’s League president, Sisisi Tolashe, also criticized Zuma’s party, stating that it disrespected the legacy of true fighters who had sacrificed for the movement. She urged members to uphold the values of the ANC and honor the sacrifices of those who had fought for freedom.
In conclusion, the ANC faces internal challenges and external threats from splinter groups like the MK party. However, leaders like Mapisa-Nqakula remain committed to the party’s ideals and are determined to uphold its legacy despite the obstacles they face. The ANC must address internal divisions and focus on uniting its members to ensure the party’s continued relevance in South African politics. Title: The Benefits of Incorporating Mindfulness into Your Daily Routine
In today’s fast-paced world, it can be easy to get caught up in the chaos and stress of everyday life. From work deadlines to family obligations, it’s no wonder that many people feel overwhelmed and burnt out. However, incorporating mindfulness into your daily routine can have a multitude of benefits for both your mental and physical well-being.
Mindfulness is the practice of being present and fully engaged in the moment, without judgment. It involves paying attention to your thoughts, feelings, and sensations, and accepting them without trying to change or avoid them. By incorporating mindfulness into your daily routine, you can experience a sense of calm and clarity that can help you navigate life’s challenges with greater ease.
One of the key benefits of practicing mindfulness is stress reduction. When you are mindful, you are better able to recognize when you are feeling stressed and take steps to calm your mind and body. This can help you avoid the negative effects of chronic stress, such as anxiety, depression, and even physical health problems. By practicing mindfulness regularly, you can cultivate a sense of inner peace and resilience that can help you handle stress more effectively.
In addition to stress reduction, mindfulness can also improve your focus and concentration. By training your mind to be present in the moment, you can enhance your ability to pay attention to tasks and activities, leading to increased productivity and efficiency. This can be particularly beneficial in the workplace, where distractions are plentiful and the pressure to perform is high. By incorporating mindfulness into your daily routine, you can develop the skills needed to stay focused and engaged in your work, leading to better outcomes and greater job satisfaction.
Furthermore, mindfulness can improve your relationships with others. When you are present and fully engaged in your interactions with loved ones, friends, and colleagues, you can deepen your connections and foster a greater sense of empathy and understanding. By listening attentively and responding thoughtfully, you can communicate more effectively and resolve conflicts more easily. This can lead to stronger, more fulfilling relationships that bring joy and meaning to your life.
In conclusion, incorporating mindfulness into your daily routine can have a multitude of benefits for your mental and physical well-being. From stress reduction to improved focus and concentration, mindfulness can help you navigate life’s challenges with greater ease and grace. By practicing mindfulness regularly, you can cultivate a sense of inner peace and resilience that can enhance all aspects of your life. So why not give it a try and see the positive impact it can have on your overall well-being?
