Articles
Monday, August 17, 2020
This is the first of a two-part tribute to Denis Goldberg, hero of the struggle for the liberation of South Africa. It deals with his early life, how he became active in the fight against apartheid and the important contribution he made. It also covers the Rivonia trial, where Denis was sentenced with Mandela and others to life imprisonment, and with the twenty-two years he spent in prison. The article reflects on Denis approach to politics and life: his sacrifice, dedication and sense of comradeship also his thoughtfulness, sense of humour and boundless optimism. Denis contributed to The Socialist Correspondent and was a speaker at our conferences – he was an inspiration to us all and will be greatly missed.
Tuesday, June 18, 2019
The major powers are once again competing over Africa. Like the earlier Scramble for Africa between 1881 and 1914 – when the European imperialists divided up 90% of the continent between them – this is about gaining valuable resources and controlling them against rivals.
Tuesday, September 25, 2018
Capitalism's dangerous world and the prospects for socialism. Hear top speakers and join the debate on the global crisis and conflicts, the situation here in Britain and the prospects for progressive change.
Wednesday, June 20, 2018
Apartheid developed in south Africa along with vicious repression of the non-white population. During most of this time it was supported by western countries and at times the situation of the black majority seemed hopeless. However, apartheid was defeated by the struggles of the South African people and international pressure and campaigns for boycotts and sanctions. This offers hope to the Palestinians today that they can achieve freedom and justice.
Saturday, March 24, 2018
Whilst Jacob Zuma was a problem he was not the only issue facing South Africa and the African National Congress. His departure has offered hope of change, but there are more deep-seated problems which need to be tackled. Despite advances, there has been corruption and growing inequality within South Africa. Opportunists have joined the ANC for personal advancement. Too often the needs of capital have come first. The ANC itself has produced critiques of these problems, but tackling them will be a major challenge.
Friday, March 23, 2018
The PR company, Bell Pottinger, collapsed after it was revealed that it orchestrated a campaign in South Africa designed to inflame racial hatred and divert attention from allegations of "state capture" against the Gupta family. This is the end of a long line of political interventions made by the company and its founder to promote reactionary policies. These include running Tory election campaigns, advising the government and the National Coal Board during the Miners Strike, working on FW de Klerk's election campaign, campaigning to halt the fraud investigation into the Al-Yamamah arms deal and producing propaganda for the US in Iraq.
Sunday, March 18, 2018
Obituary of the outstanding South African Poet who fought for the liberation of his country from apartheid. He was a major figure in African-American culture and played an important role in post-apartheid South Africa.
Saturday, March 17, 2018
Poems by the South African poet Keorapetse "Willie" Kgotsitsile: For Hugh Masekala, Anguish Longer than Sorrow and No Serenity Here.