MPs, top state officials must pay their own way

They can claim tax credits for usage of cars, fuel only for official business, writes Gavin Dorasamy.

Iwrite to you as a concerned citizen and taxpayer. With all the current challenges we are facing, there is dwindling disposable income and many with little or no income at all.

I think it would be a good idea for all parliamentarians and senior officials in government to start paying for their expenses like normal taxpayers. They can then claim tax credits for usage of vehicles and fuel only for official business.

As ordinary citizens, we pay our own way with regard to accommodation, transportation, and food, so why do these individuals who earn more money than 90% of the population, need to be given unnecessary perks? I think the individuals who remain after these austerity measures will be true servants of the nation.

The present passengers on the gravy train will be quick to disembark. This is not directed only at ANC, but to all members of parliament and other senior officials.

It would be interesting to see how politicians choose their mode of transportation when they have to pay from their own pockets. Maybe it’s time for a national debate on these issues, I think more people would go for government austerity than against it.