Remarks by Minister in the Presidency disappointing

It is unreasonable for Minister Ntshavheni to expect consumers, including children who purchase from these spaza shops, to perform duties for which the government should be responsible. Moreover, it is not the duty of citizens to verify that the food they purchase or consume is prepared in a facility that adheres to health and safety standards.

ACDP notes the signing of the BELA Bill by President Ramaphosa

The ACDP was at the forefront of opposition to the BELA Bill in the Basic Education Portfolio Committee during the Sixth Parliament, where former ACDP MP, Marie Sukers, robustly contested provisions which impacted on homeschooling and learner pregnancy, the closing of rural schools, criminalising parents, and limiting the powers of school governing bodies.

Refer BELA Bill back to the National Assembly says ACDP

The ACDP notes with deep concern that, despite widespread public objections, it has been announced that President Cyril Ramaphosa intends signing the Basic Education Laws Amendment Bill (BELA) into law this coming Friday 13 September 2024.

ACDP concerned by AG’s report on municipal audit outcomes

The ACDP notes with concern the recent 2022-23 consolidated general report on local government audit outcomes presented by Auditor General (AG) Tsakani Maluleke to Parliament. We find it extremely alarming that just 34 of the 257 municipalities in South Africa...

ACDP cautions against the abuse of the new two-pot retirement system

The ACDP cautions that withdrawals from the savings pot should only be made for emergencies. It should also be remembered that this withdrawal will be subject to tax and other administrative costs; resulting in one receiving less than what was applied for. Additionally, a withdrawal from the savings pot will reduce the final total amount available at retirement and may result in a reduced standard of living.

Decision to deny NERSA and SALGA’s leave to appeal is commendable

South Africa faces many challenges which includes having one of the highest unemployment rates in the world. Millions of South Africans are struggling to make ends meet and the ACDP, therefore, views the proposed electricity increase by Eskom, which has come in way above the inflation rate, to be unconscionable.

ACDP not surprised by Shivambu’s move to MK party

It has been rumoured over recent years that some tension and conflict exists between the leadership of the EFF, Mr Julius Malema and Mr Floyd Shivambu, as well as other members of the party who are not happy with the direction in which the party is going. With the resignation now of the EFF’s Deputy President, it would appear that there has been a degree of truth to these rumours.

Increased unemployment rate indicative of an economy in trouble

The scenario and statistics given by Stats SA paints an even bleaker picture particularly when one looks at the expanded unemployment rate, which rose to 42.6%. Worryingly, when one adds the discouraged, 3.2 million, and “other not economically active”, 13.1 million to the 8.4 million officially unemployed, the figure of 23.9 million jobless people is stark.

ACDP affirms the constitutional imperative to care for the most vulnerable in our society

Home Affairs must be efficient, ethical, and compassionate

Chairperson, The ACDP acknowledges the strides made by the Department of Home Affairs in digital transformation, including the rollout of biometric identity systems and the clearing of long-standing visa backlogs. These are commendable steps towards restoring dignity...