Here’s a wish-list to uplift SA, Mr President
WHAT the citizens, businesses, taxpayers, sick and unemployed victims of crime have gone through in recent years under this government has been harsh and very stressful.
I am sure millions would echo the same sentiments of what President Cyril Ramaphosa’s pledges and fulfilment of promises should be for the total upliftment of the grave situation. Here are some items that can be put on the shopping list to uplift the country:
Harsher laws should be introduced as the situation is getting worse for the police.
Recruit more than 200 000 officers to combat the high crime and 150 000 nurses and personnel in the Health Department.
Introduce special courts for the big five crimes: drug dealers, rapists, heist masterminds, looters and thieves at councils.
Economically, look at “free zones” with incentives and skills development centres in rural areas, and use vacant factories and land for manufacturing.
Give aspiring new landowners strict guidance and controls of finances and about 10% to 20% for a start of unused farmland, in partnership with current farmers.
A clean-up of cities should be implemented in partnership with landlords for revival of inner cities, and housing in hijacked buildings. Build new dams.
Build more hospitals, schools varsities and RDP homes, with conditions.
Set time-frames for the Hawks to wrap up, before the elections, all the cases of corruptions and looting.
With state-owned enterprises, get into partnerships with business.
Let all heads of municipalities and government departments reapply for their positions for reassessments.
Tackle the compound interest system on home loans, which is making big holes in the pockets of homeowners every month.
Look at cheaper solar energy by manufacturing, with government subsidies, solar panels to homeowners and businesses, and inspire the fourth digital revolution for the youth.
Mr President, let your motto for the future be: “I am for SA. I am for you! To better your life!” FAROUK SALOOJEE | Rustenburg