‘Patriotism of the stomach’ is much more pitiable than it sounds. Patriotism even in moderate forms is a thoroughly virtuous state of being to adopt underpinned by loyalty, commitment, support and above all selflessness in support and defence of one’s country. In Africa it is the reverse, with rare exceptions. Unfortunately, the most ‘patriotic African’ (as is locally regarded) is the one who intends to or actually (a) steals the most, (b) profits the most or (c) defends the banditry and profiteering of others the most, from and the at the expense of his or her country. The ‘patriotic African’ is vicious not virtuous. How can a positive ontology of the African come out of such a bifurcated internal conflict? An ontology of patriotism based on ‘the sharp’ dispossessing the state and citizens of their wealth has too many horrendous implications. Continue reading →