A prominent anti-apartheid activist, campaigning against an ironfisted regime; an author of critically acclaimed works; and a prominent cleric. The perfect politician? Well, there's that little thing called fraud?

The rise and fall and rise again of Allan Boesak is an intriguing story, but predictably shares similarities with many other struggle "heroes". His misappropriation of donor funds from various organisations to the tune of R400 000 shocked the nation and was the first of many scandals involving politicians in post-apartheid South Africa.

Much like his former cadres in the ANC, he has re-entered the limelight and, inexplicably, with more support, adding weight to the theory that being a criminal adds to your allure in this country.

Where Boesak's case differs, is in his support for Cope, a party that supposedly stands for justice and equality. One can't help but think that Cope might be shooting itself in the foot by nominating Boesak as its candidate for premier of the Western Cape.

With a convicted fraudster in line for one of the top positions in the province, Cope is sending a very confusing message to voters. One of the reasons behind the party's split from the ANC was to distance itself from the corruption. By propelling him into the spotlight, Cope is essentially telling the Western Cape that Allan Boesak is the best candidate for the job.

Sure, Boesak is a hometown hero, still beloved by the people who remember his crusade during the dark days of apartheid. It will be these people who give Boesak the thumbs-up, these people who ignore his follies and these people who will see him as their saviour. A Jacob Zuma for the coloured community if you will? but a bigger hypocrite.

Cope's dilemma

Much like Zuma, Boesak has plenty of detractors ? and for the same reasons too. Both are men who were born out of the struggle; both found themselves in positions of power at Apartheid's fall; both were dogged by legal controversy; and both seek positions of power with the people cheering them on. Zuma, however, has yet to be found guilty.

While there are advantages to Cope being associated with Allan Boesak, it also serves to hinder the party's chances of gaining more votes. Voters fed up with the corruption and controversies within the ANC had an overwhelming sense of optimism upon news of a breakaway party ? now, one wonders whether voters simply see Cope as the lesser of two evils.

It's not for a lack of trying on Cope's part though. With Mvume Dandala, a former Methodist minister, as its presidential candidate, Cope is trying to show how serious it is about morals and ethics in society. It seems that the party is trying a little too hard though, as is evident by their latest statement proclaiming Cope's commitment to be "honest servants of the people".

The formation of a breakaway party came at the ideal time for the country, with the rift within the ANC, numerous investigations against ruling party MPs and Julius Malema making headlines. But the real question is whether Cope will practice what it preaches. If not, Cope is at risk of turning into ANC-lite. While Mvume Dandala, Barney Pityana and other members of Cope serve as beacons of hope for the party, Allan Boesak might negate that advantage.

Many people are drawn to Cope, but you have to wonder whether they will make a difference. Both parties pledge to fight corruption, an interesting undertaking considering both Zuma's and Boesak's chequered pasts. While the ANC promises to tackle corruption within the party, Cope looks to be making an effort to "out-hypocrite" the ruling party ? with Boesak saying that he will run a campaign based on the principles of dignity, decency and honour. Yes folks, we are in for a very exciting contest?

What do you think about Allan Boesak as a candidate for Cope? Share your thoughts below...