EFF/MK 'Progressive Caucus'? Use of term 'progressive' must be interrogated
The EFF and MK calls its alliance ‘The Progressive Caucus’. But is it progressive? The title raises questions about the historical definition of the term.
FILE: Former President and uMkhonto weSizwe (MK) Party leader Jacob Zuma dances on stage of the party’s last rally in eMalahleni on 26 May 2024. Picture: AFP
Writer and publisher Matthew Blackman joins Amy Maciver to share his insights on the newly formed opposition called 'The Progressive Caucus', and what the term 'progressive' has meant historically.
The word 'progressive' has an interesting history. It has been around since the Age of Enlightenment in the 17th and 18th centuries, connected to scientific discoveries and inventions.
"It developed through Marxism, but it is rooted in the idea of science and scientific progression, away from the rule of kings, towards democracy..."
- Matthew Blackman
"In South Africa it has always been associated with the left. But its opposite is the word reactionary, reaction and conservatism. It is based in the idea that you should move away from traditional values and ideas and move towards a more scientific approach of life and democracy."
- Matthew Blackman
"But in its current use, it is very odd."
- Matthew Blackman
Is it then appropriate for the grouping of parties such as the MK Party and EFF to be using the term 'progressive caucus'?
"No," says Blackman.
"The way they are using it is a dog whistle for the left, but their policies are very far from progressive."
- Matthew Blackman
The MK Party's manifesto is a conservative one, says Blackman.
"It's about traditional values, it's about returning to the rule of Parlaiment and not the Constitution and, if we do have one progressive document in our country, it is the Constitution."
- Matthew Blackman
Scroll up to the audio player to listen to the interview.