Political restraint commended

IT was predicted to be the confrontation of the year: the red berets versus the yellow T-shirts;
Some said it was like taking an open flame to a petrol-soaked rag; others reckoned it was the irresistible force meeting the immovable object.
For sure, the potential for violent confrontation was there.
It would have taken very little to set the spark that could have ignited a major skirmish.
Just one word of encouragement to supporters champing at the bit to show the other group who owns the rights to the territory, and all hell would have broken loose.
But that’s not what happened.
Apart from some minor stone throwing and one reported gunshot, we’ve seen more conflict at most football matches.
There’s a reason for this welcome outcome, and it goes to the calm restraint encouraged by leaders on both sides of the divide.
Even before the Saturday event, a message was circulating asking locals to stay away from the area of potential conflict.
This was important, as the crowd factor tends to escalate individual emotions and deter inhibitions; the bigger the gathering, the more likely it is that people will stir up each other to where passion overcomes sense of right and wrong.
And on the day, speakers and marshals encouraged restraint, self-control and good behaviour.
The supporters heeded those instructions and, no doubt aided by the strong presence of public order police, both sides desisted from engaging in excessively violent conduct.
I, for one, am not surprised.
Our region has for a long time been led by men and women of peace; those who realise that building bridges is better than bearing arms.
Some might remember, in the late 1980’s when political violence threatened the region, business and political leaders initiated the Lower Umfolozi Peace Accord – the first of its kind in South Africa, and the forerunner of the National Peace Accord.
We then saw a seamless transition into the new democracy of 1994.
Since then, our district and local government structures have conducted the council business of the day with decorum and dignity.
We have been spared fist fights and mayhem in meetings.
All voices are permitted to be heard; all opinions are respected – even those of opposing viewpoints.
Yes, the hallmark of this region has been tolerance, harmony and reconciliation.
It’s the essence of democracy.
Long may it continue.