I was interested to learn that former crime boss, alleged fraudster and purveyor of nepotistic favour, Richard (I needn't remind you of the shortened version of the name) Mdluli, is on sick leave suffering from emotional stress. This could be the reason why he is so often seen behind sunglasses.
But my interest was really piqued by the fact that if this is true, certain investigations may be getting close to the bone forcing the embattled soul into hiding. Whatever the reason, it seems this artful dodger doesn't want to be seen officially hanging around at present - in the way his esteemed friend and crony has been doing on canvas of late looking not unlike an aloe in full, virile bloom albeit somewhat wilted.
Speaking of which, that dangling member has given not a little offence to the ruling party (an organisation of delicate sensitivity when it suits) whose presidential spokesperson, Mac Maharaj (he of fox terrier proclivities), was 'amazed' at how the artist (God bless him) denigrated the holy 'person and office of the president'.
How a self-enriching humbug can be denigrated escapes me - as it did obviously City Press editor Ferial Haffajee who, with a swift kick to the genitalia in question, was reported saying the esteemed president has done more to impugn his own dignity than any artist ever could. It seems like vitriol and vilification run like water off rogues' backs but humiliation - that is clearly another matter.
All this fiasco might just suggest some hope for South Africa at Mangaung - and I cannot wait for Zapiro's take on the spear of destiny.
