President Zuma, let’s debate solutions for the country’s economy

10 December 2015

The appointment of Mr David van Rooyen as the Minister of Finance is the clearest indicator of President Jacob Zuma’s irresponsible handling of an economic crisis into which South Africa has been led by his ANC. 

The President’s irrational and reckless decision, which sent the rand into a tailspin, has compromised South Africa’s economic standing even further. President Zuma has failed to take the necessary action to rescue our economy, or to take the decisions that conserve our fiscus, and has instead removed the Minister who showed signs of fiscal prudence.

It is clear that President Zuma is bringing himself closer and closer to having his own way with South Africa’s Treasury, unhindered by anyone in his path.

It is for this reason that I am today challenging President Zuma to a public debate on the state of our economy, rampant unemployment and corruption, where the President can explain to the people of South Africa why he continues to fail South Africa by allowing our economy to degenerate. President Zuma must answer to the nation why he saw it fit to fire Minister Nhlanhla Nene, who despite constant negative pressure sought to give South Africa’s economy positive direction.

President Zuma, as the Head of State and Government, must come out of hiding and address matters relating to the economy. Several months ago, I wrote to the President requesting a meeting, where we would discuss solutions for the economy and people of South Africa. To date I have not received a response.

Given the effects of lasts night’s ill-conceived decision, it is prudent that the President come out and debate, in full view of the citizens, South Africa’s economy and solutions to put it back on track.

The longer the President stays silent on this, the longer the people of South Africa and our economy suffers.

The Democratic Alliance has presented to the people of South Africa a short-term plan which will aid in resuscitating the country’s economy:

1. Acting on the energy crisis by scrapping the proposed Russian nuclear deal, and supporting Independent Power Producers

2. Interventions in tourism and mining to return them to growth

3. Greater support for small businesses

5. Ensuring policy and ideological consistency to undo the ANC’s policy incoherence

The time for absent leadership, especially in the economy, has long passed, and the past 24 hours should immediately push the President to confront the crisis head on.

The DA will continue to steadfastly push for leadership that grows the economy, and puts the needs of the country and its people first.

Issued by Mabine Seabe, Spokesperson to the DA Leader, Mmusi Maimane, 10 December 2015