In conversation with Tony Leon

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GEORGE NEWS AND VIDEO - On Wednesday 26 November, the Wilderness Ratepayers and Residents Association (WRRA) hosted the launch of Being There, the latest book by Tony Leon, one of South Africa's most experienced political figures and commentators.

The event is part of an initiative the WRRA began nine months ago to introduce public figures to discuss South Africa's past and future.

Leon reflected on how politics have changed, saying people used to stand for something, whereas today much of politics is about getting a job.

Interviewer Roy Marcus called the book both a riveting political thriller and a deeply personal memoir. He highlighted the account of the negotiations that led to the Government of National Unity (GNU) as a standout section.

Leon said the former and present US President Donald Trump is a phenomenon and "a perfect channeling of rage against the machine". He added that Bill Clinton once observed that although people dislike negative politics, it is often what they vote for.

In conversation: Tony Leon and Roy Marcus. Photos: Ferdie Muller Photography

Leon shared insights into Nelson Mandela's personality. He described Mandela as more relaxed than leaders like FW de Klerk and Mangosuthu Buthelezi. Mandela spent time with opponents, but paradoxically became more distant the closer he was to someone. In a chapter titled "Mandela's Mask", Leon explores these traits and some experiences with Mandela that resulted in what he calls "cognitive dissonance on steroids".

Social media, Leon said, has reshaped politics and added relentless pressure. Reflecting on the GNU negotiations, he noted that in politics, the choice is often not between good and evil, but between worse and less worse.

The outcome produced a positive market response and served as a wake-up call to the ruling party, especially when the budget was rejected by the GNU in Parliament for the first time since 1910.

On the G20, Leon compared it to chicken soup, saying it might help and cannot hurt. He warned that South Africa's statements about the USA carry weight, noting that the US accounts for about 26-26.3% of the global GDP.Looking ahead, Leon emphasised the urgent need to fix the broken justice system and police service.Tony Leon during the book signing. Photo: Ferdie Muller PhotographyLeon is the author of six books and the longest serving leader of the official opposition in Parliament since democracy's institution. He later served as ambassador to Argentina, Uruguay and Paraguay. A qualified attorney and constitutional law lecturer, he played a central role in the constitutional negotiations that shaped modern South Africa. He is now the chairperson of Resolve Communications and lives in Cape Town.Anwill Januarie, Susan Burger, Gareth Rode and John Maluleka Photo: Marguerite van GinkelJoin George Herald journalist Marguerite van Ginkel as she sits down with Tony Leon. Watch the full interview for a candid conversation filled with history, wisdom, and practical insights from one of South Africa’s most experienced political voices.