ACTIVITIES OF THE SOUTH AFRICAN JEWISH BOARD OF DEPUTIES - November 2019- October 2021
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ACTIVITIES OF THE SOUTH AFRICAN JEWISH BOARD OF DEPUTIES November 2019- October 2021
SAJBD 2020 GAUTENG COUNCIL CONFERENCE
Rising above lockdown
with Dr Edith Eger
16 AUGUST | 8PM |
Book now
POLITICAL & CIVIL SOCIETY
A survival skill
is knowing
uncomfortable
As the representative spokesbody is temporary
Gauteng Council business delegation Working with the South African and
of South African Jewry, the SAJBD meeting with MEC Parks Tau and Israeli embassies, Departments Wendy Kahn as a panelist at the
ensures that the voice of the team from the Gauteng Department of
Join us at the SAJBD Gauteng Council Conference
Town Hall before Dr Eger’s talk
of International Relations and Conference of Presidents of Major
community is heard on all issues Economic Development, August 2021 Through its weekly current affairs
Cooperation and Home Affairs, American Jewish Organizations annual programme Jewish Board Talk on 101.9
that concern it. To this end, it
international airlines and others, leadership summit, Jerusalem, 2020 Chai FM, hosted by Charisse Zeifert, the
16 AUGUST | 7-8 PM Book now
maintains effective channels of
In December 2020 former Wits SRC the Board was instrumental in Board highlights issues of importance to
communication and forges sound
Brought to you by
President Mcebo Dlamini apologised repatriating dozens of South African the local Jewish community as well as
working relationships with leading for his 2015 offensive remarks citizens stranded in Israel and publicising the activities of a wide range
figures in the political, media,
FIGHTING ANTISEMITISM against the Jewish community. He assisted individuals in travelling to of Jewish organisations and individuals.
educational and civil society spheres. went on a facilitated visit to the
Israel on compassionate grounds.
The Board safeguards the Jewish Johannesburg Holocaust & Genocide
Centre. This followed a successful
community against antisemitic
mediation between the SAJBD and
attacks, using its legal, media and Dlamini facilitated by the SA Human
diplomatic resources to deal with all Rights Commission.
incidents that come to its attention
In September 2021, the SAJBD and SA
and working where necessary Jewish Report held a joint webinar to mark
with such State institutions as the the 20th anniversary of the UN World
SA Human Rights Commission, Outreach and Upliftment
Conference against Racism, an event
Equality Courts and broadcasting THE SAJBD & COVID notorious for propagating antisemitism
regulatory authorities. Since the last The Board convened regular
National Chairman Shaun Zagnoev, in the name of fighting racism. Panellists In times of crisis in the wider
President Mary Kluk, and National Director
Jewish Affairs, a journal devoted
conference, a number of hate speech community leadership forums to included former Canadian Minister of society, the Board involves
The two years since the last SAJBD Wendy Kahn participated in regular COVID to Jewish history and culture, has
cases were brought to a successful ensure coordinated, strategic and Justice Prof Irwin Cotler, UN Special itself in disaster relief and social
conference have been dominated interfaith engagements with President been published under the auspices
conclusion. In partnership with the properly communicated responses Rapporteur on Freedom of Religion or upliftment projects. The Board
by the worst pandemic in living Ramaphosa. Mark Kluk has represented of the SAJBD since 1941. This year,
SA Zionist Federation and others, to every aspect of the pandemic.
Belief Ahmed Shaheed, Director of the was called upon to assist with
memory, the deadly and destructive the community throughout the pandemic Blaustein Institute for the Advancement JA marked its 80th anniversary
the Board also combats anti- relief during the unrest and
effects of which continue to be on the COVID Ministerial Advisory of Human Rights Felice Gaer and American with the launch of its new website
Israel bias, including on university Committee on Social Behaviour Change. looting in KZN and Gauteng in
felt the world over. To help the Jewish Committee CEO David Harris. (https://www.jewishaffairs.co.za/),
campuses and in the media and July 2021. The national, KZN
Jewish community navigate these which includes all material publish
political spheres. and Gauteng Boards assisted
exceptionally difficult times, since the beginning of 2009.
with immediate food relief and
SAJBD Gauteng Council meeting with the SAJBD has taken the lead
Johannesburg Executive Mayor, the late thereafter the clean-up and
in coordinating a wide range of
Geoff Makhubo, October 2020. From rebuilding processes.
support programmes, educational
left, Nick Selamolela, Wendy Kahn, Mr THE GLOBAL ARENA
and advisory projects and relief
Makhubo, Prof Karen Milner, Danny COMMUNAL EVENTS
initiatives. The SAJBD maintains solid working
Mofsowitz
relationships with global Jewry, AND SERVICES
Access to reliable, up-to-date building coalitions to address such
information has been critical to Holocaust Education
common issues as antisemitism
maintaining communal safety. and Commemoration
and security, defending Israel and
In view of this, the Board set fostering cultural and intellectual
up a COVID Jewish Community The Board organises the annual
The Board also successfully exchanges. Board members
approached the Randburg Magistrates Platform to provide expert medical, With the assistance of donors Yom Hashoah ceremonies in all
hold important representative
Court for a restraining order against financial, mental health and legal in the community, the Board set major centres countrywide. Due “The SAJBD assisted with a post-riot
positions on international Jewish
white supremacist and Nazi sympathiser advice, as well as updates on local up an emergency Food Relief to COVID restrictions a unified clean-up in Daveyton and afterwards
bodies, including the World Jewish MEDIA AND
Jan Lamprecht. developments and decisions. Fund to alleviate hunger in rural virtual national commemoration delivered food relief to the ECD
Congress (WJC). President Mary
and urban areas across eight COMMUNICATIONS was organised in collaboration with centres, schools and aged homes in
Kluk and national vice-chairman the East Rand, Soweto, Alexandra,
provinces, working closely with the SA Holocaust and Genocide
Marc Pozniak sit on the executive It further works with other organ- Durban, Inanda and Phoenix’.
the Angel Network and other Centres. This attracted an audience
of the WJC while Alana Baranov is a isations in combating prejudice
Jewish organisations. It further of 17 000 people.
member of the steering committee and fostering a culture of respect
Representing the community at the participated in many Community
of the WJC Jewish Diplomatic and tolerance for diversity in the Despite additional difficulties
2020 State of the Nation address: SAJBD Action Network (CAN) initiatives and
Corps. Through sharing skills and wider society. Board spokespeople caused by the lockdown, the
National Chairman Shaun Zagnoev widely publicised the outreach work
experiences, the SAJBD enhances regularly comment on a wide Board continued to work with
and the then Parliamentary Liaison of the Jewish community.
Chaya Singer
its own effectiveness while also array of issues for both the local and the relevant universities in
leading South African Jewry in being international media. successfully resolving prob-
an active, contributing component lems of exams being set
of the greater Jewish world. The SAJBD’S Communications on Yom Tov.
Department promotes the work of
the SAJBD, publicises what Jewish
Throughout lockdown the
organisations and individuals are
SAJBD organised online For the 2021 local government
contributing to South Africa and
Pictured outside the court after the ruling communal events. elections, the Board is again
are Advocate Laurence Hodes, Ian Levitt responds to anti-Jewish and anti-
running its regular #MakeUsCount
and Nick Kourie from Ian Levitt Attorneys, Israel bias.
pre-election awareness campaign
Prof Karen Milner and Wendy Kahn. to help the Jewish community iden-
tify with and involve itself in the
In October 2020, the Randburg
democratic process. The campaign
Magistrates Court imposed a
includes multi-party election de-
first-ever criminal conviction for
bates, a voter registration drive and
antisemitism against Matome Let-
Cape SAJBD meeting with Cape Town assembling a multi-faith election
soalo after he had incited violence Mary Kluk at the 75th anniversary
Executive Mayor Dan Plato, May 2021: observer team to assist the Inde-
against the Jewish community. commemoration of the liberation of
Dawn Nathan-Jones, Mr Plato, Tzvi pendent Electoral Commission on
Brivik, Daniel Bloch Auschwitz, International Holocaust
Remembrance Day, January 2020. voting day.
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T h e sour c e of qual i t y co n tent, n ews an d insights
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SA warmly welcomes Palestinian foreign minister aims to further strengthen the relationship Discrimination, Xenophobia and Related Alliance, and the South African BDS South Africa towards the [Naftali] Bennett
TALI FEINBERG
between South Africa and Palestine.” Intolerance, also known as the infamous Coalition, amongst other meetings. government.”
M
inister of International Relations In their joint communiqué, the ministers “Durban Conference” held in South Africa Local political analyst Steven Gruzd says He says the visit “reinforces ties [with
and Cooperation Dr Naledi “expressed their satisfaction with the in 2001. the visit shows that South Africa’s support for the Palestinians] and puts South Africa
Pandor, warmly welcomed the cordial relations that exist between the two According to the Embassy of the State the Palestinians “continues to be vocal and squarely in the Palestinian camp. It has shed
Minister of Foreign Affairs and Expatriates of countries, which is to be further augmented of Palestine in South Africa Facebook page, loyal. The hot issue, however, is the granting all pretensions of being an ‘honest broker’
the State of Palestine Dr Riad Malki to South by Abbas’s visit and the Palestinian leaders’ Malki also met with a group of African of Israel’s observer status at the African in this conflict, and for a long time, has
Africa last week – hospitality certainly not conference to be held in Cape Town in National Congress leaders in Pretoria, and Union. The two pledged to work together to chosen sides. The key thing to watch is what
offered to Israelis. November this year”. Boycott, Divestment, Sanctions (BDS) groups overturn it. Relations with Israel will remain happens at the African Union. Israel has its
Malki was in the country from 7 to 9 The South African government committed Africa4Palestine, Palestinian Solidarity tense. There has been no change from Continued on page 2>>
October, and was hosted by Pandor on 8 its support for initiatives that would refocus
October for bilateral talks, according to a
media statement made by department of
the international agenda on Palestine
and the Middle East peace process. South
The triumph of the ‘Cheetah’
international relations and cooperation Africa reiterated its support for a two-state
spokesperson Clayson Monyela. solution and the establishment of a
In reiterating their commitment to each Palestinian state, with East Jerusalem as its
other’s causes, “both sides agreed to exert capital.
joint efforts aimed at reversing the decision The two ministers agreed that “they
to admit Israel as an observer member to the would continue to work to achieve peace
African Union”, according to a joint post-talks for the Palestinian people”, and “in the
communiqué. The ministers also agreed to absence of sustainable peace in the region,
a planned a state visit in which South Africa there could be no global peace, stability,
would host Palestinian President Mahmoud and economic prosperity”.
Abbas. In their communiqué, the ministers
South Africa is also going to host a insisted that “security and stability in
conference for Palestinian heads of missions the Middle East is being undermined
in Africa this year to deliberate Palestine’s by continued occupation of Palestinian
Photograph courtesy Amir Ben David
policy towards Africa. territories and the aggressive actions of the
“South Africa attaches great importance Israeli regime”. Having said that, they called
to its relationship with Palestine, which is on the international community to “further
underpinned by historic bonds of solidarity, strengthen their support for the return of
friendship, and co-operation. South Africa’s all parties to the negotiation table without
support for the Palestinian cause conforms pre-conditions”.
with the basic tenets of its foreign policy,” They agreed to “exert joint efforts aimed
Monyela said. at reversing the decision to admit Israel
“The international community has an as an observer member to the African
obligation to find a comprehensive and just Union”. They also expressed support for “the
resolution to the Palestinian issue,” he said. Durban Declaration and Plan of Action”
“South Africa calls for international support which they say “remains a clarion call for
and increased efforts for the just cause of anti-racism advocacy and action worldwide”.
the Palestinian people to address their The Durban Declaration was the
legitimate demand for an independent state document that emerged out of the See story on page 16
KNYSNA
alongside a peaceful state of Israel. The visit World Conference against Racism, Racial
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2 SA JEWISH REPORT n Br rld 14 – 21 October 2021
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Israeli-American Joshua disputed the account, half a century, a attention because they “didn’t
Appliance Repairs on Site
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Angrist shares Nobel Prize saying Herman asked Jewish couple was own banks”.
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w a sher Professor Joshua Angrist, an the student, who was married in Bahrain Jewish community leaders and
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in B
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economist at the Massachusetts wearing a hooded on Sunday, others decried the comments
s, es, Stoves
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e chi Institute of Technology with dual sweatshirt, to take off 10 October. by Enrico Michetti, a radio host
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idg ing Ma
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Israeli-American citizenship, her hood because it was orl
The wedding, which who is the centre-right coalition’s
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a & more was named one of three winners blocking her eyes. When was held at the Ritz Carlton candidate in the 17 and 18
W ble Dryers of the 2021 Nobel Prize in Herman realised the student was in Manama, was a milestone October mayoral election.
Tum Call Jason Economics for his work on wearing the hood as a hijab, she for the Jewish community in “Each year, 40 Holocaust-
082 401 8239 / 076 210 6532 the impact of public policy told the student she didn’t need the Gulf nation, which opened related movies are shot, trips and
FREE QUOTATIONS developments on society. to remove it. diplomatic relations with Israel cultural initiatives of all sorts
The South Orange-Maplewood in 2020. are financed to commemorate
Jewish teacher accused of school district is investigating. Bahrain has been home to that horrible persecution, and up
forcibly removing student’s a Jewish community for more to here, I have nothing to say,”
hijab First Jewish wedding in than 140 years, but many of Michetti wrote on the website
A Jewish teacher at a New Bahrain in 52 years its younger members choose to of the radio station where he is
Jersey public school has been leave the country. Community a host. “But I wonder why the
accused of pulling a hijab off leaders hailed the wedding same pity and consideration
of a seven-year-old girl, and as a sign of the community’s isn’t given to the dead killed in
the Council on American resurgence. the foibe massacres [of Italians
Islamic relations has called for by Yugoslav partisans], in the
her removal. Rome mayoral candidate refugee camps, and in the mass
OUR TEAM IS GROWING! The teacher, Tamar apologises for antisemitic murders that still take place in
Herman, allegedly told the comments the world?
The Torah Academy School is looking for a girl to take off her hijab in A leading candidate for mayor “Perhaps because they didn’t
passionate, dynamic and competent
Kodesh Teacher in the Primary School! front of her class at the Seth in Rome has apologised to own banks, perhaps because they
Boyden Elementary school the Jewish community over didn’t belong to lobbies capable
Candidates must: in Maplewood. When the girl an article he wrote last year of deciding the destinies of the
v Have an inborn love and passion for refused, the teacher allegedly in which he suggested that planet.”
Yiddishkeit removed the hijab herself. victims of mass murders other
v Be a role model for students A lawyer representing Herman For the first time in more than than the Holocaust get less • All briefs supplied by JTA
v Be a team player
v Have excellent technical and admin SA warmly welcomes Palestinian foreign minister
skills and a good work ethic >>Continued from page 1
its fair share of African opponents, but policies of conflict resolution through and welcome development. The South States, Africa, and the Arab world. It’s
to start January 2022 also many African friends. Will they stick negotiation and talking,” she says. “This African government remains out of step not Israel, but South Africa, that’s the
part-time (20 hours per week) their necks out for Israel? We will see. action only seeks to push peace building with the rest of the continent who are odd one out. We would encourage the
South Africa has been lobbying against and the attainment of a sustainable two- moving swiftly ahead with relations South African government to take the
If you believe you are what we are the [observer status] decision, and has state solution even further away.” with Israel,” he says. opportunity to reach out to Israel to
looking for, please send your CV to influenced southern African states to “The South African Zionist Federation “The new Israeli government’s engage for the mutual benefit of both
hr@torahacademy.co.za oppose it.” [SAZF] has noted the comments of prime minister and foreign minister nations and as a means of making
*Only shortlisted candidates will be contacted Gruzd maintains there’s “virtually no Minister Pandor and Palestinian have been warmly welcomed in the a positive, proactive contribution to
chance” of Israel’s Foreign Minister Yair Minister Malki. It seems the entire focus major capitals of Europe, the United finding further peace in the region.”
Lapid being invited for a similar visit. of the engagement was to undermine
“Relations remain tense, and South Africa
won’t be seen to reward Israel for its
Israel’s admission as an observer
to the African Union,” says SAZF Shabbat Times brought to you by
policies and practices,” he said. National Chairperson Rowan Polovin.
Wendy Kahn, the national director “We believe this is a foolhardy and
Spencer Schwartz from You Realty
Residential Property Sales and Rentals (countrywide)
of the South African Jewish Board of hypocritical approach to international
Deputies (SAJBD), says, “The SAJBD relations.
believes that for South Africa to play “Israel has had a mutually beneficial
Starts Ends
a meaningful role towards a peaceful relationship with African states for Johannesburg 17:56 18:47
outcome to the Israeli-Palestinian more than 70 years. It has been at the Cape Town 18:42 19:35
situation, it would need to engage with forefront of efforts to help solve some Durban 17:48 18:40
both Israelis and Palestinians. Without of the most important developmental
Bloemfontein 18:06 18:58
speaking to the Israeli leadership, it’s not challenges on our continent, including
possible to truly understand the situation in the areas of health, agriculture, youth Port Elizabeth 18:13 19:07
and to gain trust in order to bring the development, water, education, and East London 18:03 18:56
parties to the negotiating table. energy,” Polovin says. I can’t buy or sell your Bobba, but I certainly can sell your home.
“The dogged campaign by South Africa “The admission of Israel as an
to exclude Israel from the African Union is observer to the AU, alongside more Spencer Schwartz • 084 524 4616
antithetical to our international-relations than 70 other countries, is a historic spencer@yourealty.co.za
Torah Thought Rabbi Pini Pink,
Chabad Greenstone
In the brave steps of Abraham
I
n this week’s Torah portion, verse can additionally be seen as a this path before us. The Midrash
Lech Lecha, we read about command to us to leave the comfort teaches that “the actions of the
the first Jew, Avraham, who of our insular lives and venture out fathers are a signpost for the
resisted the tide of paganism, to the world at large to transform it children”. Another translation of
idolatry, and immorality. Society into a G-dly place. the word siman or “signpost” is
had moved away from monotheism While we may be satisfied by “empowerment”, and the Midrash
and Avraham’s beliefs were staying within the safe confines of teaches us that by risking their lives
ridiculed. However, Avraham the Judaism that we have grown to spread the belief in one G-d, our
stayed the course and in spite of up with, it’s no recipe for growth. forefathers made it easier for us to
great personal risk and at the cost G-d therefore tells us that if we follow their example.
of ostracism from his family, he enter the real world, our full inner At this time of year, when we
spread the belief in one G-d. potential will be realised, and our have hopefully been inspired by a
The portion opens with G-d true, best selves will come to the month of festivals and are thinking
giving Avraham a direct command fore. about moving forward in our
to travel out of his homeland and Fighting the prevailing attitudes Judaism, we can be confident that
away from his family in order to of the day has never been easy, we are following the advice of tried
spread his newfound message. but as Jews, we can be reassured and tested authorities all the way
G-d’s command to Avraham in this that our forefathers have travelled back to Avraham.
Editor Peta Krost Maunder – editor@sajewishreport.co.za • Sub-editor Julie Leibowitz
Journalists Nicola Miltz • Tali Feinberg • Junior Reporter Saul Kamionsky • Photographer Ilan
Ossendryver • Editorial co-ordinator Martine Bass – editorial@sajewishreport.co.za
T h e so u r c e o f q u a lit y c o n t e n t , n e w s a n d in sig h t s
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14 – 21 October 2021 SA JEWISH REPORT 3
Jeweller’s senseless murder I want to
buy your
leaves community reeling bobba! old or new,
NICOLA MILTZ large. we’ll pay you
As news of Kopelowitz’ passing rippled a wow price
T
he hearts of a Johannesburg family have through the community, heartfelt tributes
for your car.
been ripped apart after the senseless come pouring in from close friends and family
murder this week of well-known jeweller who described Mark as a “true mensch”.
Mark Kopelowitz, who was shot in cold blood He was a devoted and committed son,
during an armed robbery outside his store. husband, father, and brother, described by all
Kopelowitz’s tragic death on Monday, who knew him as “thoughtful, kind, caring, Call Alan: 082 850 0004
11 October, has sent shock waves through the and generous to a fault”, someone who would www.alfinauto.co.za
community. Hundreds of people are struggling literally give the shirt off his back.
to come to terms with the untimely passing of The family are stalwarts of the Linksfield
this much-loved father of four who “lived for his Senderwood Hebrew Congregation, with just
family”. dreams for me.’”
“He was my everything, the absolute love of Kopelowitz was born and raised in
my life,” said his devastated wife, Linda, who Witbank. He matriculated from King David
told the SA Jewish Report she was “battling to Linksfield, and attended the University of
make sense of it all”. the Witwatersrand, where he completed his
“I cannot believe it. I’m still waiting for him to LLB degree.
come home,” she said. “He was a qualified lawyer, but business
The couple were childhood sweethearts and was his passion,” said Linda.
soulmates from the moment they met in their According to friends, Kopelowitz was
teens. “We went out for ten years and have a natural entrepreneur and retailer. He
been happily married for 25. How am I going to sold jewellery in flea markets in his early
get through this?” asked Linda, who said their twenties before going on to make a name
young son and three older daughters, one of for himself in the mainstream retail sector
whom writes her matric finals in two weeks, as MK Jewellers, with a handful of stores in
were heartbroken. upmarket shopping malls.
When Kopelowitz, 54, left home on that Friends this week said Kopelowitz had a
fateful Monday morning he was filled with great sense of humour and was a sociable
renewed optimism about work. Earlier that person who was exceptionally goal driven
morning after attending shul, he and his and ambitious. He loved beautiful things
son, Cole, 13, made coffee for all the like décor, spending time with his family,
congregants present at the minyan. The and hiking when time allowed.
third wave of the pandemic was over, His two older sisters, Maxine Jaffit and Robyn
and retail business was picking Sher, said their brother was “a deep
Mark, Ruby, Cole, Amber, Linda, and Aurah Kopelowitz
up. Tragically, Kopelowitz thinker who was the embodiment of
arrived at his Kays Family compassion and kindness”.
Jewellers in Centurion Mall about the entire shul present at was without trousers and shoes.
while the armed robbery Tuesday’s funeral. Rabbi Levi “In good Mark style, he doesn’t give him
was in progress. He was Avtzon described the family as money, he takes off his pants, takes off his
“EVERY ONE OF US
fatally shot while robbers “royalty in the community”, shoes, hands it to the beggar and goes home STANDING HERE FELT
were fleeing the shop with being one of the oldest members early without pants. And it happened more LIKE SOMEBODY HAD
stolen goods. of the shul. than once,” he said. STUCK A HAND INTO
Linda received an A religious and observant man, There were no half measures with him, OUR HEARTS AND
urgent and dreaded Kopelowitz attended morning said the rabbi.
phone call from Michael and evening prayers with his “I have never seen a father so obsessed
REMOVED A PART OF IT.”
Phillips, Kopelowitz’s son every day, and the two had with his kids. Each night he would come
cousin, who was there to recently started wearing black home, talk to each one of them individually,
meet him at the store. hats. lie down with them, ask them how their day “Mark loved business and always wanted
The rest is a blur as “Every one of us standing was. His biggest dream was to have naches to do well. He was an extremely hard worker
Linda frantically hurried to be by here felt like somebody had from his children.” and never stopped trying. He did everything
her husband’s side. stuck a hand into our hearts Addressing Linda, he said, “He was for us,” said Linda.
“I got there after they had and removed a part of it,” obsessed with you, and you were obsessed Police said the arrested suspects were
already covered his body. It said Avtzon, describing with him. Everybody knew it, it was no found in possession of the vehicle which
was a crime scene,” she said in Kopelowitz as “one of a secret, and he did whatever he could to was allegedly used to flee the scene of the
disbelief. kind in so many ways”. bring joy to his family.” robbery. Both suspects are expected to
Police arrested two suspects He recalled a day when To the four Kopelowitz children, Amber, appear in court shortly.
that night in Hillbrow in Kopelowitz stripped off his Ruby, Aurah, and Cole, he said, “The biggest The police are appealing to the public to
connection with the robbery, clothes to hand to a beggar who way to honour your father is by living life to come forward with any information that can
and are on the hunt for a further the fullest. I can only imagine Mark saying, assist with the investigation on the Crime
four suspects who are still at Mark and Linda at Cole’s Barmitzvah ‘Please don’t sacrifice your happiness and Stop line 08600 10 111.
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Laureen Shalpid 083 789 0229 Laureen Shalpid 083 789 0229 Chrissie Hammer: 082 568 0440 Jeremy Craig: 076 246 4900
4 SA JEWISH REPORT 14 – 21 October 2021
Desai “dismissive and unapologetic” about breaching code
NICOLA MILTZ requested its dismissal. “somewhat insouciant and dismissive attitude towards stay out of politics.”
Desai submitted that his response must be considered the gravity of his violations of the code”. The SAZF’s affidavit accused Desai of adopting a
T
he South African Zionist Federation (SAZF) this in the context of the following principles, to which The affidavit said Desai relied “heavily on background partisan view of the conflict in the Middle East, and
week called for former High Court Judge Siraj he subscribes and which are relevant to this Former High descriptions of his character accused him of selectively citing from the contents of the
Desai to be held accountable for contravening complaint. Court Judge and pro-human-rights work” Goldstone Report by failing to mention that the report
the judicial code of conduct for his anti-Israel views and “First, silence by judges in the face of injustice Siraj Desai but said that the complaint concluded that both sides of the conflict were guilty.
support of terror organisation Hamas. and violations of basic human rights, particularly was about his conduct. All It said Desai’s failure to mention any blameworthy
“As a citizen, he has every right to be an ardent pro- given the history of South Africa, is inconsistent the background information conduct by Palestinian armed groups again
Palestinian, anti-Zionist advocate,” the SAZF said in its with judicial office,” he wrote. amounted to “an attempt demonstrated that plainly, he was a partisan advocate
replying affidavit submitted on Tuesday, 12 October, “Judicial officers, therefore, have a particular to deflect the focus from who supported one party in the conflict.
to the Judicial Conduct Committee (JCC). “As a judicial duty to confront injustice, promote equality for conduct that is a clear In a statement this week, the SAZF said, “An officer of
officer, he is constrained by the code, yet he plainly all under the law, and condemn racism in all its contravention of both the the South African court shouldn’t support an anti-Jewish
continues to conduct himself without restraint in forms. underlying precepts and extremist organisation, Hamas.
advocating against Israel and in support of Palestinian “Second, judges don’t exist in isolation. They don’t provisions of the code”. “For example, last year, during an interview with
causes.” perform their functions in a cloistered monastery isolated The response said Desai was “utterly unapologetic in an Iranian YouTuber, Desai made inappropriate
In the affidavit, the SAZF again accuses Desai of from society. They are members of the community with his disregard for the limitations placed upon him by the statements likening Ayatollah Khomeini of Iran, an
continuing to politicise the judiciary with inflammatory their own beliefs, opinions, and sympathies.” code”, and accused Desai of being “rather quite brazen” acknowledged violator of human rights, to former
comments that run contrary to the judicial code of Quoting the Constitutional Court, his response said in trying to justify it on human-rights grounds, “which is President Nelson Mandela. This comparison between
conduct. By allegedly doing so, the organisation accuses “absolute neutrality” was something of a chimera in the again an evasion of the issues at hand”. the champion of peace, who led the struggle for the
Desai of undermining the separation of powers between judicial context because “judges are human. They are The response said Desai’s conduct and stance was fall of apartheid, with a regime that commits gross
government and the judiciary. unavoidably the product of their own life experience, and “incompatible” with the position of the law, as noted human-rights abuses, is offensive to South African
The JCC is part of the Judicial Services Commission the perspective thus derived inevitably and distinctively by Judge Phineas Mojapelo in the matter between history and calls into question the moral judgement
which is responsible for dealing with complaints against informs each judge’s performance of his or her judicial Africa4Palestine and Chief Justice Mogoeng Mogoeng. of Desai.”
judges. duties.” In that matter, Judge Mojapelo noted, “The rule The SAZF said that during the same interview,
The matter goes back to July, when the SAZF lodged In this week’s response, Professor Anthony Arkin on is clear: South African judges are prohibited from Judge Desai undermined South African foreign policy
a complaint with the JCC accusing Desai of action and behalf of the SAZF, said it was clear from Desai’s reply that belonging to political parties; and they are not to be by referring to the United States, a major trade partner
conduct “entirely unbecoming of a judicial officer”. he didn’t deny his conduct and the events upon which involved in political controversies [debates/disputations], and supporter of our country, as a “Great Satan”.
The SAZF charged that Desai had, over many years, the complaint was based, accusing Desai of adopting a whether linked to political parties or not. Judges are to Continued on page 5>>
breached the code of judicial conduct, and accused him
of being a politicised judge. It also questioned his recent
appointment as legal services ombudsman in which his Israel’s status on agenda of AU executive
role is to safeguard the integrity of the legal profession. NICOLA MILTZ in bringing about peace between Israel and Palestine, drawing on lessons from the
For many years, Desai has been an active anti-Israel African nationalist movements and the experiences of decolonisation and reconciliation
O
lobbyist, and has openly shown support for pro-Palestine n the eve of the meeting of the Executive Council of the African Union (AU) following various conflicts can be used to inspire negotiation and peace between the
activities and lobby groups including the Boycott, this week, there has been much speculation about whether Israel’s recent Israelis and Palestinians.”
Divestment, Sanctions (BDS) movement. granting of observer status will be debated, and if calls for the decision to be Meanwhile, the South African Zionist Federation (SAZF) has joined various African civil
Desai lashed back in a 24-page replying affidavit in rescinded will be heard. society organisations from across the continent in their call for African heads of state to
which he vehemently denied the allegations calling The announcement in July that Israel had been granted observer status at the AU reaffirm unanimously Israel’s admission as an observer member of the AU.
some of them “factually incorrect” and “based on hearsay drew sharp reaction from several countries on the continent, including South Africa. “Israel has had a mutually beneficial relationship with African states for more than
evidence”. He said the complaint “was without merit”, and Last week, International Relations and Cooperation (Dirco) Minister Naledi Pandor 70 years. It has been at the forefront of efforts to help solve some of the most important
met her Palestinian counterpart, Riad Malki, and again expressed dissatisfaction with developmental challenges on the continent. These include the areas of health,
Israel’s status. (See story on page 1.) agriculture, youth development, water, education, and energy.
During the official bilateral talks held at Dirco, Pandor said South Africa wasn’t party to
the AU’s “shocking” decision to grant Israel observer status.
In July, Pretoria moved swiftly to lobby other Southern African Development
Community states against the decision.
Many said the decision had been taken unilaterally by AU Commission Chairperson Assembly of the African Union
Moussa Faki Mahamat, and expressed solidarity with Palestine.
Out of 55 member states, 46 enjoy diplomatic relations with Israel. There are about
17 member countries opposing observer status.
It’s understood that the matter was placed on the agenda of the AU executive council
following complaints by some member states.
Professor Hussein Solomon of the University of the Free State wrote recently that
South Africa was “out of sync” with the views of most African heads of state. “Isolating
Israel won’t work in promoting the well-being of Palestinians. This was tried for decades
by Arab countries and has failed.”
Jean-Pierre Alumba Lukamba, the international director of the African Diaspora for
Development, (ADD), told the SA Jewish Report this week that according to the guiding “The admission of Israel as an observer to the African Union, alongside more than 70
principles of the AU, Israel should be at the opening of the AU’s executive council other countries, is a historic and welcome development. It should be celebrated and not
meeting this week as an observer member for the first time in nearly 20 years. undermined by those who aren’t interested in peace and prosperity on the continent,”
The ADD has reiterated its call to African heads of state to maintain unanimously it said.
the admission of the state of Israel as an observer member. The SAZF called on other organisations connected to Africa and its diaspora to sign a
In a statement, the ADD said, “The African people will derive great benefit from the letter of support to the AU.
state of Israel, which has notably established agricultural co-operatives, youth training The letter is signed by prominent progressive international African organisations,
centres, and medical facilities in countries such as companies, leaders, activists, youth movements, and trade unions. It says Israel’s
Ghana, Sierra Leone, Rwanda, and Côte d’Ivoire. admission seeks to “enhance the work of Israeli African co-operation on development
“Israel supported the use of technology for the programmes at bilateral and multilateral levels. Admittance is in the interests of peace
sustainable development of Africa in accordance with a and dialogue.”
resolution adopted by the United Nations,” it said, and it Faki Mahamat accepted the credentials of Aleligne Admasu, Israel’s ambassador to
was “convinced” that admission to the AU of Israel would Ethiopia, on 22 July.
help to advance the African continent towards a better He said at the time that he hoped the move would contribute to the “intensification
future for the well-being of African people. of the advocacy of the AU for the fulfilment of the principle of two states and the
The ADD joined its voice to those of other civil society restoration of peace between Israel and Palestine” and reiterated the “unflinching
organisations, and asked the African heads of state to commitment” of the AU to the fundamental rights of the Palestinians.
include it on its agenda this week. This included their “right to establish an independent national state, with East
Earlier this week, the ADD held a peaceful rally in Jerusalem as its capital, within the framework of a global, fair, and definitive peace
Abuja in support of Israel’s observer status. between Israel and Palestine.”
Olubunmi Fagbuyiro, the Economic Community of Faki Mahamat said the reservations expressed by “a few members” about this
West African States representative of the ADD, said that decision justified his intention to include it on the agenda of this week’s session of the
there was still concern about countries who opposed executive council.
this observer status. “The AU should embrace Israel, as Israel obtained AU observer status after 20 years of diplomatic efforts. It had
the country has already demonstrated its willingness for previously held the role at the Organisation of African Unity (OAU), but was long
fruitful partnership with Africa,” Fagbuyiro said. thwarted in its attempts to regain it after the OAU was disbanded in 2002 and replaced
He said Israel had been pivotal in the provision of by the AU.
green energy, health infrastructure, and infrastructure Apart from South Africa, other countries opposing Israel’s member status include
for sustainable water supply in many countries on the Algeria, Comoros, Djibouti, Egypt, Libya, and Tunisia.
continent. He noted Israel’s contribution to the fight Most other countries on the continent have sought closer ties with Israel, such as
against Ebola in Africa. Kenya, Ethiopia, Rwanda, and Uganda, and have secured Israeli help, expertise, and
“It’s our view that the AU can play an important role investment in many areas from water and agriculture to tech start-ups.
14 – 21 October 2021 SA JEWISH REPORT 5
Mogoeng may be dogged by Israel question into retirement
TALI FEINBERG resolve his appeal. “The JSC, by its delays, signalling as to South Africa’s official service. Of course, we must bear in mind
has essentially allowed the chief justice to position, and perhaps suggesting that it that this is similar to the complaint being
A
lthough Chief Justice Mogoeng undermine its own ruling by not settling wasn’t a coherent view,” says Fritz. “But made against retired Judge Siraj Desai [by
Mogoeng’s decade-long tenure the matter before the chief justice’s term more concerning, there was fear that his the South African Zionist Federation].
was filled with ups and downs, his came to an end,” it said. views would create the perception that These cases may affect each other.”
comments in support of Israel last year may Nicole Fritz, the founder and chief he would be incapable of determining a He says it’s important to compare the
be the thing that South Africans remember executive of Freedom Under Law, explains dispute that related to Israel in a way that utterances of Desai and Mogoeng. “Desai
the most. that “the complaints was impartial. So, I think the ruling might had a direct meeting with Hamas, which is
As he retired this week, the saga relating to Chief Justice chill any comments from any future chief regarded as a terrorist group. And he called
remained unresolved. Will he still have to America the “Great Satan”. Mogoeng said he
deal with the Israel issue or will it end as he supported both sides and wanted peace. So,
leaves office? Furthermore, where does it if Mogoeng is disciplined and Desai isn’t, we
leave Israel supporters in South Africa? could have a problem.”
Mogoeng was taken to task for comments Oppenheimer says these judgements tend
he made during a Jerusalem Post webinar to take years, and he was surprised at how
with Chief Rabbi Dr Warren Goldstein in Outgoing Chief Justice quickly Mojapelo ruled against Mogoeng.
June 2020, and later at a prayer meeting Mogoeng Mogoeng He points out, “If you have an ongoing
when he refused to apologise for what he disciplinary hearing and you leave your
had said. employer, that complaint is moot.” Yet he
Africa4Palestine, the Boycott, thinks it’s important that the finding is
Divestment, Sanctions South Africa (BDS resolved, “so that other judges know what
SA) coalition, and the Women’s Cultural the rules are”.
Group laid complaints against him, saying Judge Dennis Davis told the SA Jewish
he had flouted rules regarding judicial Report, “That the chief justice has retired
ethics. The matter was adjudicated by doesn’t prevent the JSC from pursuing
Judge Phineas Mojapelo. the complaint. The problem of whether a
Among other points, the chief justice sitting judge can criticise South African
said in the webinar that, “We are denying government policy, in particular foreign
ourselves the opportunity of being a game policy, remains. I doubt whether this
changer in the Israeli-Palestinian situation. extends to comments about Israel per
The forgiveness that was displayed by se, although manifestly, as was evident
President Mandela is an asset that we must from JSC hearing, support for Israel – in
use around the world.” Mogoeng’s comments about Israel don’t fall justice regarding Israel, and it should. But particular current policy – is likely to elicit
But in March 2021, the Judicial Conduct away just because he has retired. We have I don’t think it will serve to chill anyone criticism.”
Committee directed Mogoeng to apologise seen a number of complaints processes else’s expressions of support for Israel.” A prominent advocate speaking on
unconditionally for the statements he made continue irrespective of retired justices, Hugh Corder, professor emeritus of condition of anonymity says, “Mogoeng
about Israel. He chose to appeal the ruling. because what is sought to be disciplined public law at the University of Cape Town, allowed himself to get sucked into
That was at the beginning of April 2021, is conduct that took place while they were told the SA Jewish Report that judges’ controversy. Maybe he’s heading towards a
and was the last public announcement judges. Often there is a sanction directed service was rather peculiar – they remain on political career, or even the pulpit. But he
made on the issue. towards the individual judge, but also it’s full judicial salary for life, so are regarded as won’t be asked to sit as an arbitrator or on
On 11 October 2021, Africa4Palestine important that the disciplining process being subject to the judicial code of conduct commissions of enquiry.”
released a media statement saying that be used to educate the public and other as a consequence. “Thus, unless some other There are many who will continue
the chief justice was leaving his office “in members of the judiciary as to what is arrangement has been made, Mogoeng to fight for Mogoeng to support Israel
disgrace”, with South Africa’s Judicial permitted when one is holding judicial won’t be able to escape the consequences of publicly. South African Friends of Israel
Services Commission (JSC) failing to office.” any of his statements which have affected spokesperson Bafana Modise, says, “We
As for whether the final finding will his standing and reputation, whether they salute him for taking a stand for the state
Desai “dismissive and unapologetic” affect those wishing to express support for be on Israel/Palestine or the effects of the of Israel. We salute him for being bold and
about breaching code Israel in South Africa, “Quite honestly I COVID-19 vaccine.” unapologetic about his beliefs and Biblical
>>Continued from page 4 don’t think it will,” she says. “It wasn’t so Advocate Mark Oppenheimer says truth. Today, Chief Justice Mogoeng – who
much that the expression of support was Mogoeng’s Israel issue could fade into was doubted and even mocked for his
“This is a clear violation of the code of conduct for Israel per se, it was that as head of the oblivion if no one pushes for it to be Christian beliefs – has become the longest
for the judiciary and the separation of powers judiciary, he was straying into territory resolved. But with organisations agitating serving chief justice in our country. In him,
inherent in our Constitution. Instead of apologising that would make it difficult to see a unified for a conclusion, this is unlikely to happen. South Africa has a true South African friend
for these utterances, Judge Desai subsequently government response from South Africa. “He’s still bound by the contents of the of Israel. May South Africa continue to echo
and unapologetically reiterated both stances at a “I think the concern was what he as Judicial Services Conduct Act. In addition, his sentiments – to pray for the peace of
political event in Cape Town a few weeks ago,” the head of one arm of the government was retired judges can still be called back for Jerusalem.”
statement said.
“In spite of his long-standing links to
organisations such as BDS, in 2015, Judge Desai
presided over a case brought by BDS activists rather
than recusing himself on the basis of conflict of
interest.”
The SAZF accused Desai in 2018 of entertaining
Palestinian extremist group Hamas during its trip to
South Africa.
“Hamas is a violent organisation whose founding
charter calls for Jewish genocide and the total
destruction of Israel. Using the prestige of the
judicial office to promote publicly an extremist
organisation is clearly contrary to the precepts
underlying the judicial code of conduct, and shows
an open hostility towards the Jewish community
and the rights of South African minorities,” the
statement said.
The SAZF said it didn’t bring this complaint to the
Judicial Complaints Commission lightly, and didn’t
aim to curtail freedom of expression.
“The SAZF is on record as defending the rights of
judges to express their views within the ambit of the
judicial code, especially when balanced fairly in the
interests of justice. However, with the appointment
of Judge Siraj Desai as legal services ombudsman
and in the interests of justice and the reputation
of the legal profession, it’s essential to hold Judge
Desai accountable for his actions and violations of
the code of judicial conduct which is unacceptable
from a judicial officer.”
6 SA JEWISH REPORT 14 – 21 October 2021
Jewish Report Service delivery comes
south african
The source of quality content, news and insights
last in race for power
No more double standards OPINION PAUL BERKOWITZ
W W
hen the South African government hosts e are less than three weeks away Many voters,
the foreign affairs minister of another from a local government election, including members of
country, it’s generally good news. When we and it’s likely to be our most chaotic the Jewish community,
welcome leadership from elsewhere, it mostly means and fractious since 1994. The country has make ballot choices
increased co-operation between the two states, been under lockdown for 18 months, and this based on ideology and gut feel. In past
building relationships, and boosting trade. has had a direct effect on voter registration elections, the African Christian Democratic
In fact, in the past 18 months, in spite of the and political campaigning. Voter turnout will Party has been touted as a viable choice
pandemic, we have hosted a number of leaders, probably reach a 15-year low. because of its pro-Israel stance. ActionSA has
including President Emmanuel Macron of France; Ironically, just as political participation incorporated xenophobia and border control
Spanish secretary of state for foreign affairs, Cristina and education has been declining, the need in its 2021 campaign, parties like the Patriotic
Gallach Figueras; Algerian Foreign Affairs Minister for clean, accountable local government Alliance and the Cape Coloured Congress have
Sabri Boukadoum; Dr Lazarus McCarthy Chakwera, the has never been greater. The vast majority appealed to racial identity, while the African
president of the Republic of Malawi; and Lesotho Prime Minister Dr Moeketsi Majoro. of municipalities – including the City of National Congress (ANC) and Economic
The countries we invite or simply welcome are varied, some being more or less important Johannesburg – have unacceptably high levels Freedom Fighters have used populist slogans
to us in terms of trade and bilateral agreements. Some official visitors are more or less of financial risk and service delivery failures. and messaging to appeal to voters. Even the
impressive to host. Nevertheless, making friends and influencing other governments is The long-term decline in national Democratic Alliance, which has a proven track
generally a good sign in a country’s leadership. government’s finances plus the persistent record of service delivery in the Western
Considering this, I would expect to be glad when South African International Relations corruption and maladministration at municipal Cape, has resorted to negative campaigning
and Cooperation Minister Dr Naledi Pandor hosted and welcomed with open arms the level has resulted in infrastructural backlogs, and comparisons with the ANC’s governance
minister of foreign affairs and expatriates of the state of Palestine, Dr Riad Malki. It’s above-inflation increases in service tariffs, and failures.
neither here nor there if such a country in fact exists. South Africa should be enhancing cash shortages in many municipalities. None of these issues have a link to service
relationships with other leaders around the world. Municipalities’ core function is to provide delivery and clean, accountable government.
However, it gets stuck in my throat when the same honour isn’t proffered to the basic service delivery (water, electricity, What should voters and communities
leadership of Israel. In fact, our dear minister of international relations and cooperation is sanitation, and rubbish removal). In addition, consider before casting their votes?
unlikely to be available for such a meeting even if it was hosted in her honour. larger municipalities provide basic health Unfortunately, there’s not much time to
But yet, at the same time, she will have these warm and friendly meetings with this services, police, firefighting, emergency learn more about candidates, and there is
Palestinian leader, talking about peace in the Middle East and finding a two-state solution. medical services, and more. Municipalities little information available. The Electoral
This actually sounds wonderful, except that you cannot work towards peace by dealing are also tasked with the spatial development Commission’s website does have a portal for
with only one side. You cannot negotiate peace without both parties being given an equal of communities, working with other spheres the 2021 local government election where
platform, or am I somehow mistaken? of government
Let’s talk more about creating an equal platform. In their discussions, the foreign to formalise
ministers of South African and ‘Palestine’ agreed to do all they could to remove Israel’s housing and drive
newly bestowed observer status at the African Union. Why, you may ask? Quite simply, to local economic
punish Israel. Is that a way of working towards peace between Israelis and Palestinians? I development.
think not. It’s critical that
Then, while Pandor is going to welcome Palestinian leader Mahmoud Abbas for a state voters make an
visit to South Africa, she wouldn’t be seen anywhere near the company of Israeli Prime informed choice
Minister Naftali Bennett. And, the latter’s crime? None that I know of, but we would have to in the elections,
ask the very learned Dr Pandor. and vote for
The Palestinian and South African bilateral discussions also brought about agreement to candidates and
host a Cape Town conference for Palestinian heads of missions in Africa this year where the parties with
“state of Palestine’s policy towards Africa” will be discussed and contemplated. What are a track record
the chances of our government hosting such a conference for Israelis? The truth is, in this of community
instance, I’m sure holding such a conference for Israelis would be perfectly acceptable, only service and good
it would inspire a huge protest, and so on. governance.
So, I repeat, government hosting this Palestinian leader is essentially good news, as is its Unfortunately,
hosting of most other leaders. However, it’s the double standards that irk me. voters have less
Though South Africa will entertain leaders from countries with horrific human-rights information than
records, it won’t meet Israel. China is way up on this index, as is Libya, Syria, Iran, all of ever about their
whom are friends of our government, but not Israel (which doesn’t really feature on this political choices: parties have been unable to voters can download candidate lists. These lists
abusive list). campaign effectively under lockdown, and new are in PDF format, and are difficult to navigate.
What’s so perplexing for me is that it seems like South Africa is being left behind with its candidates are mostly unknown to their wards Even if voters can create a shortlist of the
anti-Israel sentiment – or can I go as far as calling it South Africa’s blind spot? and communities. parties and candidates in their ward, there’s
Most countries in the world recognise these days that a relationship with Israel can Our electoral system also leads to a few not much that they can do to learn about
only be good for them. Israel is way ahead of so many countries in terms of technology, practises that make it harder for voters to those candidates. It’s possible to google the
agriculture, science, and even medicine, that it’s worthwhile to maintain a good working make an informed choice. For example, many candidates’ names and research their social-
relationship with it. political parties take advantage of a legal media presence, but not all candidates have
So many African countries with a good relationship with Israel have benefited hugely on loophole to field the same ward candidates an online profile. Some candidates have
numerous fronts, but South Africa cannot or will not consider this. across multiple wards. This is done in order done their best to campaign in recent weeks
I totally understand that a country with a background of human-rights abuses would find to maximise a party’s votes and increase the and reach constituents, but they are in the
it unconscionable to be friends with a country that commits human-rights abuses. If Israel number of seats it can win in council, but it minority.
was really such a country, then perhaps we wouldn’t have room to talk. leads to parties fielding candidates who are The truth is that the hard work really
However, Israel is in the heart of the Middle East, nestled among a number of countries weak and not representative of the wards begins after the election date. It’s highly
where human-rights abuses are horrific. And yet, South Africa picks this tiny country to put where they are standing. likely that there will be more coalitions in
its pins into, ignoring the friends it has that commit human-rights abuses. I say it again: In the City of Johannesburg metro alone, Johannesburg and Pretoria. The track record
these are very convenient double standards! there are 54 parties and 44 independent of coalitions over the past five years is poor:
I also understand looking out for Palestinian women and children who have been treated candidates. At least 25 of these parties have many coalitions have collapsed and others have
badly and made homeless. I feel for them, and wish I could help them. However, what about registered ward candidates in every ward been sabotaged. Ordinary South Africans will
Afghan women and children? Or is it okay to abuse them or ignore the fact that they are across the metro. Many – if not most – of these need to become more involved in political life
being abused because it isn’t woke to protest against that? candidates have been chosen to make up the beyond the election cycle in order to improve
I feel as if I have said this all before, and I know I have. However, somehow, it seems numbers, not because they have experience governance and service delivery.
important to come back to it when our government’s double standards are being showcased in government or are dedicated to serving At The Third Republic, we are dedicated to
once again when it comes to Israel and the Palestinians. their communities. Most voters in the metro the research needed to hold local government
I can’t ignore it. We can’t ignore it. will have to choose from more than 25 ward more accountable, to track public spending,
The only solution is to make it clear that if the South African government or our foreign candidates with little to no information about and council decisions. We invite you, the
affairs minister is going to meet Palestinian leaders, then she needs to meet Israeli leaders. them. reader, to work with us over the next five years
She needs to get to know the issues from both sides, to sit down and discuss them. Visit Basic service delivery isn’t an exciting idea to ensure that local government improves and
Israel. See for herself. Don’t take it from others. Do the research, and make up her own for most voters or parties, and parties tend that communities are able to participate in the
mind based on the facts. to campaign on issues which have nothing decision-making that affects service delivery
It isn’t rocket science. It’s simply taking away the blinkers of prejudice and replacing them to do with local government or service and local development.
with the facts. We can help! Just say the word. delivery. Many parties make promises or
commitments which are completely unrealistic • Paul Berkowitz is a director at The Third
Shabbat Shalom! and unachievable. This just adds to voters’ Republic, a non-profit organisation working to
Peta Krost Maunder confusion, and increases their apathy towards deepen democracy and political participation
Editor political participation. across South Africa.
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