Mamphela Ramphele, anti-Apartheid activist, launches new political party ‘Agang’
Respected businesswoman and anti-apartheid activist Mamphela Ramphele delivers a speech on February 18, 2013 at the Women’s Gaol on Constitution Hill in Johannesburg to launch a political party platform to challenge the ruling African National Congress (ANC). The former World Bank managing director and trained medical doctor, Ramphele has been vocal in criticising the ANC, which dominates politics. She called for profound economic restructuring following months of deadly wage-strikes in the mine and agriculture sectors. The party will contest the 2014 national elections.
Mamphela Ramphele, a fervent anti-apartheid activist and founder of South Africa’s Black Conscious Movement, announced the formation of her new political party on Monday.
Called "Agang," the Sesotho word for "Let us build," Ramphele said she hopes that it would further the country's dream of a "Rainbow Nation," Reuters reported.
"Today I announce that I am working with a group of fellow citizens to form a party political platform that will focus on rekindling hope that building the country of our dreams is possible in our lifetime," the 65-year-old said in Johannesburg, according to Agence France Presse.
Ramphele, who served as the World Bank's managing director in 2000 and is a trained medical doctor, claimed that South Africa's progress has stalled under the African National Congress, and accused them of lack of accountability and corruption, AFP reported.
“The dream has faded for the many living in poverty and destitution in our increasingly unequal society,” Ramphele said, according to the Associated Press. “And perhaps worst of all, my generation has to confess to the young people of our country: We have failed you.”
Agang will campaign for seats ahead of the 2014 parliamentary elections, AllAfrica.com reported.
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