Morality a rarity One of the key boundaries separating African and Western politics is embracing moral obligation and responsibility.We have witnessed in the past few days how members of Donald Trump's Cabinet resigned en masse in protest of the events that unfolded at the United States Capitol. They simply could not let what transpired, including five deaths, rest on their conscience.
Resigning from office is a critical ethical decision for individuals. In Namibia, for example, there has been so many opportunities for leaders to take the moral high ground and excuse themselves from certain situations, but they chose to stick around like bees on honey.
Why, if we may ask, are Sacky Shanghala and Bernard Esau still members of the Swapo Central Committee when they have a Fishrot cloud hanging over their heads? If, for selfish reasons and self-preservation, they refuse to throw in the towel, where's the party's moral responsibility towards itself and the people it claims to represent?
While it is true that the two former ministers are innocent till proven guilty, there is no question as to the gravity of the allegations they are facing. Being a Central Committee member is not just a symbol of power. If anything, it is a bestowment of responsibility to lead and work for the party.
In what way have the two been discharging their responsibilities to the party while in jail?