The CNN has dubbed him the “Obama of Soweto” following his landmark victory in the elections to determine the leader of the country’s biggest opposition party, the Democratic Alliance (DA). But, beyond the euphoria, Mmusi Maimane knows pretty well that his party has work cut out.
Now, the new DA leader claims he has a plan on his sleeve to tackle what struggle stalwarts have been grappling with since 1994. But does he have what it takes or its just all hot air?
The historically disadvantaged, who constitute the bulk of the electorate, can be exonerated for being cynical of politicians.
False dawns have been one too many to trust anyone’s claims. However, should we give Maimane the benefit of doubt?
Maimane’s Plan, which was outlined in this speech during the recent American Chamber of Commerce breakfast, is four-pronged.
- Investing in economic infrastructure
To achieve investor confidence, the country needs to invest in economic infrastructure. South Africans will be able to build their businesses on the backbone of the infrastructure.
Further, with Eskom not going anywhere – apparently, Maimane believes it is high time the parastatal’s iron-like grip on the supply of electricity was loosened and more ambitious private players allowed.
- Small businesses
Maimane says instead of focusing on creating 5 million jobs, government should seriously be talking about one million entrepreneurs. This, he believes, is the only way the country could achieve sustainable economic growth.
- Curbing the excesses of unions
Maimane believes a situation where trade unions are given carte blanche to hold the economy to ransom should be allowed. Unions, he says, should curb their excesses.
- Youth unemployment
To provide equal education, the country needs competent teachers, well equipped classrooms and children who are frequently tested on numeracy and literacy.
Do you believe Maimane can really reduce the yawning gap between the ‘haves’ and ‘have nots’ ? Join the debate on Transform SA Online facebook page.
One Response
I throw my heavy weight behind this impressionable young man. But i am not carried away though. The jury is out on the sustainability of his ideas. Time will tell!