What is treason actually?

True leaders unite their people and do not divide them.

- ISAAC MASHABA

It is interesting how the word "treason" has now become a regular feature in ongoing populist rhetoric and statements.

But what is treason and who are the actual perpetrators of treason?

Treason is defined as "the crime of betraying one's country, especially by attempting to kill or overthrow the sovereign or government".

Is it therefore not a betrayal of a country to plunder and steal the state's coffers into bankruptcy?

Is it not the empty coffers that will bring about the collapse of a government?

Are those who wish to further the gravy train not committing treason?

Is it possible for a government to tear itself apart and overthrow itself as a result of its own bad behaviour and incessant corruption and plundering?

Is it not treasonous to send our troops to the Democratic Republic of the Congo, unprepared and ill-equipped to conduct their mission - regardless if it is in the name of peace or protection of mining assets?

Is it not betrayal to simply abandon them in their time of need and believe that if they are ignored then all will be fine for them?

Is emasculating our law enforcement services and giving criminals free rein to operate when and where they want not a form of treasonous betrayal?

This dangerous lack of security simply results in citizens arming themselves and providing their own security.

In turn, this can lead to uncontrolled vigilante groups who attempt to fill the vacuum created by a lack of policing. And whose fault is this? Is this gross betrayal of the nation by the political class not treason?