/ 8 February 2013

Letter: The gap is there for Ramphele

Mamphela Ramphele.
Mamphela Ramphele.

("Ramphele must 'reinvent' herself to succeed in politics", February 1).

Some say there is no space for a new political party. But the Congress of the People (Cope) has proved that there is. Its performance has proved that; it is the third most powerful. And the party has not failed – Mbhazima Shilowa and Patrick Lekota, because of their power struggle, have failed the party.     

People are no longer drawn to parties by what they stand for. Instead, they are lured by the opportunities the party affords them, which works in favour of the governing party.

The news that Ramphele might start a new party is welcome. I hope she gets the necessary funding because an effective opposition will enhance our democracy. – Thabile Mange