Days before I arrived back in SA the President saw fit to fire the Finance Minister, appoint a completely unknown but malleable replacement, fire him within a couple of days and then reinstate a previous incumbent - fortunately one held in high esteem by the business and financial communities. There was a collective gasp from all South Africans everywhere. He had never messed with the Economy to any great degree before but the impact was immediate on all the financial markets. I watched with horrified fascination as the exchange rate to the pound hit new territories throughout the day. So it was a done deal when my sister suggested that we attend the march to be held in Cape Town on the 16th of December - a public holiday now known as The Day of Reconciliation but previously memorialised as Blood River Day - another iniquitous day in South African history.
The march started off at Parliament and wound it's way into the historic Company's Garden. A beautiful sunny, hot day. Thousands of people arrived with wonderful placards and banners.
There was such a spirit of camaraderie and the speakers, who included Mpho Tutu - The Arch's daughter, encouraged everyone to talk to the people standing next to them. With serious intent, this was also a fun day to be out with like minded people of all colours.
After a couple of hours, the march was heading off to join a celebration of Bishop Tutu and his wife, Leah's contribution to peace and reconciliation and equality in South Africa - they are much loved.
With the serious business over we headed home and on the way passed some newly painted buildings, aren't they spectacular?
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