NATIONALISATION AND REDISTRIBUTION
The landscapes and dynamics in political circles leave South Africa wondering what to do next. The re-elected ANC Youth League President, Julius Malema, who is at the sole trustee of a trust propagates the pending topics of Nationalization and Redistribution.
The stance of the ANC YL on the subject is not compromised; it is triggering panic buttons on some South Africans. They ask themselves whether it is idealistic for such a move. Some within the ANC are at cross purposes on the subject as it has huge implications for the general public.
This then calls for public participation even in the form of a referendum. The matter is very delicate and should be handled with the greatest circumspection. It has to be borne in mind that the average South African needs service delivery in potable water, health care and food security.
President Jacob Zuma has called on all to put their shoulders to the wheel and ensure that citizens get maximum benefit of what is available before indulging in issues that can wound us with the passage of time.
While we support the government of the day, we appeal for consultation. We should not be treated like dumb driven cattle. The spirit of democracy and the African dream cherished by the world recognized icon, Madiba, should be the guiding force. Decisions should not be taken out of spite.
Service levels of some of our black brothers are suspect. Year in and year out the results of their audits are unimpressive, they range from qualified to exclaimer reports from the auditor general. The question arises who will be the keeper when all mines will be nationalized.
We hold our hands to our hearts that if this nationalization were to see light of day, it not be a get rich scheme for some selected individuals. Our priorities ought to be planned and adhered to in a transparent manner.
Transparency is key to achievement. It is unfortunate that even 17 years into democracy, South Africa has yet to be seen as a good black-led government. Issues such as the arms deal, the appointment in high offices are not done in an open and accountable manner. We should be on the look out lest we be the laughing stalk of countries such as Great Britain.
Things done in haste can be dangerous. We must have learnt from Zimbabwe. After the Robert Mugabe government repossessed all farms from the whites, the war veterans who took them over left them to run into ruins and hunger is hitting that country.
As a young person in this country I feel there is nothing wrong in letting the whites keep on farming but they must be ready and prepared to transfer skills even in mining lest we nationalize and remain with those mines as deep, dark dungeons we cannot operate.
Sent by: Otshepeng Mosebo
UCDP Youth League Member
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