In conversation with Tony Leon

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.

- Marguerite van Ginkel

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”.