HUGH MASIKELA WAS NEITHER “A FREEDOM FIGHTER NOR POLITICAL ACTIVIST”
![Bra Hugh Masekela [Image: Wits Uni / Daily Maverick]](https://gsmn.co.za/wp-content/uploads/2026/04/WitsUni-Hugh-citation-1024x595.jpg)
It is unfair for anyone to think or expect that Tribute to Hugh Masekela was about the celebration of a political icon. Yes, Bra Hugh, as the legendary musician was affectionately called, was …er a highly conscientized politically conscious artist. But he was neither a freedom fighter nor a political activist. More than anything, when […]
SPOKES, A SELFLESS SERVANT OF THE STRUGGLE THROUGH THE MEDIA
We buried Theophilus Sjuja Spokes Mashiyane. He was my childhood friend, a university mate and later a media colleague. We buried the bones, flesh and blood. But his spirit lives in our memories, hearts and souls. Friends and family spoke about his life, his achievements and intentions. However, I am not too sure if the […]
THERE ARE NON-REVOLUTIONARIES HERE
The neo-colonial reconstruction of reconciliation has destroyed the soul of Black people. As a result, Black people are obsessed with being peaceful and nice to both oppressors and collaborators. In his analysis of current political devevloments and electoral trends where there are hundreds of political parties, outspoken author of the best-selling autobiography, The Oddessey : […]
THE OLIPHANT IN THE ROOM
I think she was fully aware that she had an array of options. And she chose to be bold and daring … taking power head on. Nay, she dragged it by the scruff of its neck into a public spectacle. Worse, they had suspended her with immediate effect. They did not follow process. Sit her […]
WHY WE MUST FORGET THE PAST
No one really talks about the messy situation following the dawn of freedom and democracy. The conversation is mostly nostalgic and about the renewal of the liberation movement. This is flogging a dead horse. Something happened after the unbanning, the return and release of political prisoners. Over the last 32 years or so, it has […]
TRIBUTE TO JAZZ MAESTRO FEZILE ‘FEYA’ FAKU – HUMBLE TO THE END
Rising From The Township Dust He was proud that he grew up in the impoverished township. It was rich in artistic and musical history and heritage. Thus, at the age of 12 years, the young boy’s talent was discovered by wise elders. Duke Makasi. Whitey Khulumani, and others. These legends recognized the spark within him. […]
A CRY FOR DR GOMOLEMO MOKAE’S SENSELESS KILLING
Sometimes one questions and wonders about the impact of Black Consciousness (BC) on the psyche, especially of black men. Here is an advocate of BC. He was part of the group and generation that conceptualized the ‘Asispin’elokshini’ anti-crime campaign. As seasoned professional, he chooses to stay among his people in the township. But fear reigns. […]
LAMENTATION FOR SLAIN LIBERATION HERO, DR MOKAE
BLACK TOWNSHIPS PLACES OF MURDER & DEATH Garankuwa, Pretoria – So these marauding black thugs will break into your house for your large screen TV, music system, laptops and other electrical appliances This was a case of robbery, theft and murder in the townships. It is a way of life. The townships are not places […]