Thomas Johnson - The Blog

The inquiry into the conduct of former University of Cape Town vice-chancellor Mamokgethi Phakeng has confirmed allegations of mismanagement, unethical conduct and victimising staff. The report's publication has released claims and counter-claims from critics and supporters.  But lost in all the Sturm und Drang is the fact her conduct was a consequence of decisions and actions then VC Max Price, the executive and council made almost eight years ago. But first, down the memory lane.  In 2009 as a recent, mature UCT Master's degree graduate, I made enquiries at my former academic unit, the African Centre for Cities, about enrolling for a PhD. The distinguished (late) Prof. Vanessa Watson asked if I knew the difference between a Master's and PhD. The insulting implication was I was not worthy or qualified as a potential candidate. The director of ACC Edgar Pieterse ignored my enquiry and request to join their regular seminars but a third professor was encouraging. I was not a...

Predictably, the Springboks' Rugby World Cup win unleashed hyperbolic praise from media, opinion writers and President Cyril Ramaphosa, all, incorrectly, describing it as an example of "unity" and common purpose by South Africans. For example, on Tuesday October 31 there were five op-eds in Daily Maverick, including of Ramaphosa's address to the nation the day before, all saying basically the same thing. News24's headline news and commentary is almost entirely about the Springboks' triumphant return. One can draw the conclusion they're all singing from the Ramaphoria and ANC choir sheet. The clue is "unity" used excessively in all reports. Unity is important to Ramaphosa and ANC - ANC unity that is. They and similarly minded forget that to the teams competing in RWC, and cricket world cup, these are merely games played by professionals. The game comes first, followed by personal achievement. Patriotic intentions might matter, but not all that muc...