Despair or hope, regression or progress
As we bid farewell to 2023 it is hard to find reasons to celebrate. The year was marked by multiple crises that exposed the deep-rooted problems facing SA and its people. From the worst post-pandemic economic recovery among emerging markets and its devastating impact on livelihoods, to persistent load-shedding and dysfunctional rail and port infrastructure that hampered economic activity, the ongoing corruption scandals and the coalition circus in our biggest municipalities that eroded public trust and confidence, the year was one of the most challenging and turbulent in our history.
Yet amid the gloom there were also glimpses of hope and resilience. The SA Reserve Bank acted swiftly to contain runaway inflation that threatened to erode the incomes of poor household. We can also count on a vibrant and responsible private sector — bar two or three cases of corporate malfeasance — one that invests in growth, lends its skills and expertise to the floundering state and contributes to social development. Our civil society is strong and active, playing a crucial role in monitoring and engaging with the government and advocating for people’s rights. By and large, our media is fair, objective and informative and investigative, and exposes wrongdoing and corruption.
The courageous actions of some of our judges and prosecutors who upheld the rule of law and held the corrupt and the powerful to account, and the inspiring achievements of some of our sports stars — notably the Springboks — and artists who brought pride to the nation, all showed that SA is not a lost cause.
However, these positive developments are not enough to overcome the challenges that plague our country. As we enter 2024 we need bold and decisive action from all sectors of society to address the root causes of our problems and chart a new course. We need a capable and accountable government that delivers on its promises and serves the public interest. We need a diverse and united citizenry that respects and embraces its differences and works together for the common good.
As we approach the 2024 elections we have an opportunity to make our voices heard. We have a duty to exercise our democratic rights and responsibilities and hold our leaders to account. We have a choice to make between the status quo and a new direction, between despair and hope, between division and unity, between regression and progress. Whichever party prevails, the outcome of the elections should be a mandate for an inclusive and realistic plan to build a society where everyone thrives.
As we celebrate the festive season and new year, let us not forget the challenges and opportunities that lie ahead.
Thank you for supporting Business Day in 2023. You have helped us deliver quality journalism and analysis. Your feedback and engagement enriched our conversations and perspectives. We look forward to serving you better in 2024.
Happy holidays!