TLU SA pleaded with President Cyril Ramaphosa to lift the country-wide lockdown to save the economy.
In a formal letter to the president, TLU SA refers to a similar letter written a year ago, where the organisation communicated their concerns regarding the economy.
“It seems that, a year later, we have even more reason to concern,” says Mr Louis Meintjes, the president of TLU SA. “Our country is in junk status as we predicted, but still the government is not making any show of changing its economic policy to get us to the point of growth again.”
TLU SA suggested the following to turn the economy around:
- Implement an economic policy to which markets will react positively;
- Confirm that you accept the concept of private ownership, as well as the principle of market forces;
- Let go of the policy of expropriation without compensation and BEE;
- Embrace the knowledge and expertise of all South Africans to turn the ship;
- Empower people to realise the importance of education and how burning, vandalising and robbing a school ruins the future;
- Work to bring the economy to the point of growth.
In the letter, TLU SA urges government to relax or completely lift the measures implemented to stop the spread of COVID-19, to save the economy.
In a separate letter to the Minister of Agriculture, Land Reform and Rural Affairs, Ms Thoko Didiza, TLU SA stresses the negative impact of the country-wide lockdown on the economy.
“The impact of the virus on South Africa pales compared to the economic destruction the lockdown sows,” says Mr Meintjes. “The growing poverty, unemployment and famine across the country hold a severe threat to the stability of South Africa.”
TLU SA suggests the following regarding the lockdown:
- Downgrade or eliminate the levels of lockdown in as many places as possible;
- Apply a level of lockdown only in the places where there is a high density of positive cases, older people and those suffering from chronic diseases, making them more vulnerable;
- Let the economy continue without limitations elsewhere, subject to practical hygiene measures.
“As the leader of the country you must stand up and show the right direction, Mr Ramaphosa,” says Mr Meintjes. “South Africa is waiting for your leadership.”
Issued by: TLU SA
Date: 13 May 2020
Enquiries: Mr Louis Meintjes, President TLU SA, Cell.: 082 461 7262
Mr Bennie van Zyl, General Manager TLU SA,
Cell.: 082 466 4470
