Business calls for smooth conference
POLITICAL, ECONOMIC FUTURE DEPEND ON IT BLSA says if there is no credibility, outlook for country is bleak.
Business Leadership South Africa (BLSA) yesterday urged the ANC to ensure that it holds a smooth elective conference and respects its outcomes next month, for the sake of the country’s prosperity.
The ANC will hold its 54th national conference from December 16-20, an event the BLSA called “an important moment for the country” and one with unusual significance.
The conference takes place against a backdrop of reports of widespread corruption and wholesale looting of state resources, the capture of the state and an economy severely weakened by political and policy uncertainty.
Levels of poverty, inequality and unemployment are at completely unacceptable levels.
BLSA said the public, businesses and local and international investors were watching developments carefully and that a stable, peaceful and smooth conference would be in the interest of economic stability and long-term prosperity of the country.
Chief executive Bonang Mohale said BLSA has extended an invitation to all candidates for the ANC presidency to engage ahead of the conference to discuss how they can work together for the prosperity of all South Africans.
Mohale said BLSA did not have a preference for any particular political party or candidate as a matter of principle. But he said BLSA had a strong interest in the political goings-on in the country, and the conduct of all political parties, which has a critical bearing on the country’s political and economic prospects.
“If a credible election is not held in December, or if the new leadership that emerges does not move swiftly to prioritise economic recovery, eradicate state capture and restore the faith of the country in our institutions, the future for our economy and our country is bleak indeed,” Mohale said.
Mohale said BLSA would like the ANC to remain vigilant against any interference or attempts to derail the smooth running of the conference.
He also urged the ANC to prioritise inclusive economic growth and job creation, eradicate state capture and restore the credibility of state institutions.
“BLSA remains committed to making a positive contribution to South Africa’s economic recovery. There is no solution where business is not a core part of any recovery plan,” he said. – ANA
BLSA remains committed to contributing.