To think that some on the left make the argument that the killing of children, young people, and old pensioners is a legitimate form of anti colonial struggle reveals a moral vacuity and political bankruptcy that should receive an unqualified rebuke. I got to think that such words never were uttered, even in moments of anger and despair, by the great anti colonial leaders of the 20th century. Not Fidel. Not Mandela. Not Gandi. Not Ho.
Closer to home, King, including in the most tragic moments of the civil rights struggle, never considered such heinous actions. Only the other side — the Southern racists — did. And without any moral indecision or scruple proceeded to murder and maim young Black children and teenagers.
All that said, most young people don’t share such views, thanks to their political outlook, moral ballast, and good sense.
