SA NEEDS MINISTRY FOR MINORITY AFFAIRS

Mahatma Gandhi clearly elucidated that a true reflection of a democracy lies in the manner a majority treats the minority. Having propagated the cause of minority rights for the past 10 years within the National Assembly, it is imperative that President Jacob Zuma, at this juncture within our democratic journey, undertake to establish a Ministry for Minority Affairs.

I have on several occasions called for it within the National Assembly, and followed up the request by meeting with the President prior to this year's SONA to discuss the state of minority communities within our country. Additionally, during a previous SONA debate, I submitted a White Paper to the President detailing the need and implications of the establishment of the said ministry.

The Freedom Front Plus has recently added their voice to our call and recognized the need for such a Ministry, particularly in the South African context, and we laud them for putting party affiliation aside to support a good cause for all minority communities.

Our country is one of the most diverse in various aspects pertaining to race, culture and language. Although the protection of the rights and dignity of all citizens are protected within the constitution, it is necessary to have a focused approach to the affairs of all minority groups in our country. This will create a department that proactively promotes and develops minority affairs, but also creates a dedicated avenue to prevent the marginalisation of minority groups to the extent that the survival of their culture and heritage is not threatened.

It is certainly not a strange request; in fact, since 2006 a similar Ministry has proven very successful in one of the world's most populous nations, India. It strengthens the multicultural, multi-lingual, multi-racial, multi-ethnic and multi-religious character of their country.

This is more than just cultural preservation through the protection of monuments and mother-tongue education, it would ensure that policies also further the educational development and socio-economic circumstances to prevent a situation where minorities lag behind the development of majority of citizens.

Diversity remains a cornerstone characteristic of our country. Protecting it will be crucial to our democracy. We should learn from our counterparts in India and make a concerted effort through a Ministry of Minority Affairs.

Hon. Roy Bhoola is a Member of Parliament for the Minority Front.

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