“We also intend to start a new chapter in relations between government and opposition. We reiterate that it should be possible to work with opposition parties on issues that are in the national interest”. (Part of president-elect Jacob Zuma’s acceptance speech)
Zuma had earlier confirmed that the government’s priorities shall be those five areas targeted by the African National Congress (ANC) namely education, health, land reform and rural development, the fight against crime and creating decent work.
“Our most immediate priority is to respond decisively to the challenges posed by the global economic downturn. We must move quickly to implement the framework agreed by the government, business and labour to protect jobs and boost the economy.” (Mail & Guardian)
An olive branch to the opposition and confirmation that the ruling party will be carrying its election promises into government.
It is now up to South Africa as a whole to get behind the government that the majority has chosen. Whether it is a case of getting behind our leaders or as Paul Whelan, one of my readers, says the officials we elect, neither they nor the opposition will achieve anything without our support.
The objectives are clear: South Africa has to uplift the masses of the people of this country while steering a measured course through the extremely perilous waters that are presently the world economy.
It is accordingly imperative in the medium term that our focus matches that of our national and provincial governments if they are to have any chance of succeeding. A few months down the line we will be able to start gauging whether they are living up to their promises or are proving to be totally inept. Right now we are guessing and to deny Zuma the chance to show us what we can do is counter-productive.
Zuma confirmed in his speech that the government must be more open to criticism.
Let’s try and respond to that by making ours constructive and aimed at improving on the problem areas rather than just ranting at individuals and parties.
Who knows Zuma may pleasantly surprise his doubters and confirm to his supporters that they were right all along in getting behind him. Condemnation without waiting to see what happens is a non-starter.
Oh and no — before you ask — we have never seen what Zuma can do as the president of the country.
Now we can.
A prince with dignity and determination
Prince Ngarambe’s goals are to become Rwanda’s first transgender model and to uplift the country’s youth
The EFF’s principles are unshakeable
Unlike the ANC, the core values of the freedom fighters do not change with each leader it elects
