Mathews Phosa - The African Mirror

Dec

2023

When A Dream Comes True

DURING the famous Rivonia Trial of 1963 and 64 our first democratically elected President, Nelson Mandela eloquently verbalized his dream for a post-apartheid South Africa. In it, he made it clear that he was willing to fight, and if necessary, die for the ideal of non-racial South Africa, free of any prejudices. That was his dream. Standing on the shoulders of hundreds of selfless struggle heroes, he achieved that ideal thirty years later, in 1994. His example has galvanized many people across the world towards the achievement of their goals. In the very recent past, we saw a young man…

Nov

2023

By MATHEWS PHOSA

“The Regression of Democratic gains is a sign of a state collapse”

THOUGHT LEADERSHIP

AS we celebrate the life of one of South Africa’s great legal minds we are, unfortunately, witnesses to a world at war, not only on one front but tragically so, on two. Old divides have resurfaced, and historical geopolitical positions are being entrenched. Across the globe divides are deepening and, in the process, innocent bystanders become the victims in conflicts where there are no winners. The former Chief Justice Pius Langa became known for his measured approach to judgements, clothing his carefully worded views with a strong measure of ubuntu, but also encouraging his esteemed colleagues on the highest bench…

Jun

2023

By The African Mirror

NATIONAL HEROES: Special Olympics athletes return home with 22 gold, 20 silver, 7 bronze medals

SPECIAL OLYMPICS

THE 2023 Special Olympics South Africa National Team has returned home to a hero's welcome after an extraordinary performance at the Special Olympics World Games in Berlin, Germany. The team amassed an awe-inspiring medal tally of 22 Gold, 20 Silver, and 7 Bronze medals, placing them among the top contenders and reinforcing their status as true champions. This remarkable achievement holds great significance for South Africa, as it exemplifies the extraordinary talent, determination, and resilience of individuals with intellectual disabilities. The Special Olympics South Africa National Team has shattered barriers, defied expectations, and emerged as a beacon of inspiration for…

Jun

2023

By DR MATHEWS PHOSA

Lessons from South Africa to Empower SMEs as Key to Economic Growth & Jobs Creation

THOUGHT LEADERSHIP

WE are currently in a period of global turbulence where the balance and security of the geopolitical order is under stress. The conflict in various parts of the world does not take place in isolation, it has consequences for foes and allies alike and, unfortunately, for the economies of all the nations around the world. We are, in Southern Africa, proud of the political independence that we have achieved from our political and economic oppressors post the period of colonialization. Whilst we have not yet translated that independence into economic independence and broader local participation in wealth, I am of…

May

2023

By DR MATHEWS PHOSA

How students can contribute to building a better future for all

THOUGHT LEADERSHIP

WE must never forget to celebrate the gains that we have made since that historic day of political liberation twenty-nine years ago in May 1994. We have a Constitution that is universally admired, we can all proudly bring out our vote, and we have a democratic and vibrant political system wherein Opposition parties utilize every inch of the leeway that parliamentary rules and the law afford them - to keep the government on their toes. Strides have been made with social upliftment and - in some cases - we have created excellent infrastructure. We have struggled, however, with the maintenance…

May

2021

By The African Mirror

Retired judge apologises to Phosa

NEWS

AFRICAN MIRROR REPORTER AN ugly public spat between two of South African leading legal eagles has ended with an apology and withdrawal of criminal charges. ANC veteran Mathews Phosa and retired Constitutional Court judge Zak Yacoob have smoked the peace pipe after several days of a public exchange and threats of criminal action. At the heart of the dispute was the interpretation of the ANC “step aside” rule, in terms of which ANC members facing criminal charges are withdrawn from official positions. The settlement was brokered by Dr Khulu Mbatha, an ANC veteran, advisor to President Cyril Ramaphosa and a…