Supporting civil society is critical, says Rise Mzansi
Rise Mzansi has pledged to forge a strong bond with civil society to address many of the challenges faced by KwaZulu-Natal residents.
Addressing supporters in Durban yesterday during the unveiling of the party’s plan should Rise Mzansi be voted into power, the party’s
KZN premier candidate Nonkululeko Hlongwane-Mhlongo said civil society was key in the development of the province.
“The government in KZN has become suspicious of civil society. It has shunned rather than embraced all components of the sector, from social movements to non-governmental organisations (NGOs) to ratepayers to community-based organisations (CBOs).
“Yet, civil society is the voice of the people. Rise Mzansi is founded on the principle of the need for strong bonds between civil society and government,” she said.
Under a Rise Mzansi government, Hlongwane-Mhlongo said all NGOs rendering a service to the community would receive state funding.
Founded by former journalist Songezo Zibi a year ago, Rise Mzansi is one of the parties vying for the control of KZN.
Hlongwane-Mhlongo, who at the age of 37 is one of the country’s younger candidates, said the party would treat the issue of unemployed graduates as a priority.
“We will create jobs through meaningful short-term public employment programmes.
“This means, first and foremost, ending age discrimination against working-age South Africans by removing the 35-year age cap and hire on the basis of ability to work and of need, not of age.
“It also means developing community work into a recognisable profession that is compensated through public employment funds, and launching a provincial service programme where all school-leavers and graduates will be eligible to participate in a year-long work experience programme and receive a stipend,” she said.
On crime, Hlongwane-Mhlongo said a Rise Mzansi provincial government would make the province “a no-go area for criminals, and put organised crime syndicates out of business”.
“We will make our streets and communities safe again.
“KwaZulu-Natal residents feel unsafe on the streets, in their homes, at work and in their communities.
“This is a nationwide problem. Fear causes anxiety and other mental health issues, and a breakdown in bonds of solidarity.
“At a national level, a Rise Mzansi government will work to reform and professionalise the criminal justice system, from law enforcement to prosecution to rehabilitation.
“At a provincial level, a Rise Mzansi government will aim to address the root causes of crime, as well as support community-led initiatives and organisations that are working to reduce crime,” she said.