By Adam Wakefield

The latest edition of the Nando's Daily Maverick The Gathering, saw the morning session graced by leading figures from South Africa’s three largest political parties, the African National Congress, the Economic Freedom Fighters and the Democratic Alliance.

Following a slow start, in part due to a traffic accident not far from the venue, comedian John Vlismas opened proceedings with a light ribbing of what was to come, before the first speaker, ANC treasurer general Zweli Mkhize took the stage with moderators for his session, journalists Ranjeni Munusamy and Stephen Grootes, watching on.

Mkhize said the coming local elections provided an opportunity to strengthen the economy and society at large. He acknowledged that while mistakes had been made, it gave the ANC an opportunity to learn.

Following the conclusion of his remarks, Mkhize fielded questions from Munusamy and Grootes, covering the topics of election lists, Nkandla, the economy, governance and how private and public sectors can cooperate for greater good of the economy.

He was followed by DA leader Mmusi Maimane, who argued that the coming local elections were an opportunity for the country’s democracy to be put to the test. He was confident that while citizens might be downcast, it symbolised that change was on the horizon.

Following his speech, he shepherded questions from media personalities Siki Mgabadeli and Gareth Cliff regarding the DA’s land policy, whether he was truly in charge of the DA, and the inclusivity of DA-run Cape Town’s economy.

Last, but not least, prior to the coffee break was EFF leader Julius Malema, who came to Midrand with energy which he expressed on stage, tied in with his characteristic wit.

He put out his stall, stating that he was not at The Gathering to please anyone but rather speak the truth.

Noting that struggle continues against white privilege, not white people, with the two very distinct, Malema believes that improving municipalities starts with bringing in the requisite skills. If that meant utilising the skills of retired civil servants, it also creates an opportunity to mentor younger civil servants.

He also decried the lack of correct priorities, citing the building of cycle lanes as such an example at the expense of other services.

Malema then fielded questions from moderators Munusamy and journalist Richard Poplak regarding the EFF’s view on meeting state violence with violence, where funding could be found for the municipalities that the EFF wanted to run, and the broader national economic picture.

Vlismas closed out the session for the coffee break, with The Gathering set to continue after the break.

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