Balton: When a state fails, stand up

The Ahmed Kathrada Foundation's Neeshan Balton says it has become crucial for South Africans to stand up as the state starts to unravel.

Balton addressed the 2017 Serious Social Investment conference taking place in Parktown.

He focused on the state of the new nation and how to build social cohesion to get over our perpetual struggles as South Africans.

"When any state becomes lawless or corrupt, there is a need for people to stand up. There is a need for people to protect what they think is dear and near to them. If this democracy is near and dear then that is what you and many others will have to begin to look at - what do you do," said Balton.

Various civil society marches have been organised across the country for tomorrow, calling for President Jacob Zuma to step down.

Balton called on organisations to do more.

"As a state begins to unravel, as leadership contestation grow in this country, we will have to pick up lots of pieces in the process," said Balton.

Balton said flouting the constitution is the biggest threat to social cohesion.

Balton said we are beginning to understand how powerless we are ahead of the motion of no confidence in President Zuma, scheduled for 18 April at 2.00pm.

"We can't say to an MP this is how we think you should vote. Their party structures will tell them how and their party structures will whip them into line. A brave few might cross, but it will be a great personal sacrifice," said Balton.