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The United Democratic Movement (UDM) is expressing deep concern over the African National Congress-led (ANC) government’s approval of a “business rescue plan” for the South African Post Office, which is anticipated to result in the retrenchment of 6,000 employees. The UDM contends that this move reflects a pattern where ordinary workers bear the brunt of the ANC government’s mismanagement of state-owned enterprises (SOEs).
The rationale behind retrenchments in SOEs often revolves around reducing the salary bill, with the promise that it will alleviate financial strains. However, the UDM argues that the core issue lies not in the salary bill but in financial mismanagement, leaving workers in precarious positions even after retrenchments.
Since 1994, every state entity under the ANC-led government’s purview has required rescue or turnaround efforts, funded by taxpayers who may soon find themselves unemployed. The UDM suggests that this situation is not unique to the South African Post Office and could be indicative of a broader trend affecting all state entities.
The South African Post Office faces a substantial challenge as its asset base pales in comparison to its liabilities, totaling approximately R12.5 billion. The proposed R3.8 billion business rescue bailout is purportedly aimed at restructuring and modernizing the institution. However, the UDM questions the effectiveness of this approach and advocates for a more client-centric strategy.
Rather than relying solely on financial injections, the UDM proposes that the South African Post Office should prioritize responsiveness to its primary client base in rural areas. Conducting market research to understand the needs of these communities would enable the development of services tailored to their requirements, such as diversifying financial services, such as offering insurance.
The UDM highlights the broader economic implications of the government’s actions, noting the increasing number of layoffs that jeopardize the livelihoods of thousands of families. The ANC-led government’s decisions, according to the UDM, put citizens at risk of being unable to meet financial obligations and facing hunger.
These citizens, directly affected by government policies, are also the ones with the power to vote. The UDM emphasizes the potential consequences for the ANC in the National and Provincial Elections of 2024, urging all South Africans to unite against the ruling party. The UDM contends that a government that neglects its people, disregards the constitution, is marred by corruption, and is controlled by individuals with questionable motives is not conducive to a thriving economy. The call to action is clear – unite against the ANC in the upcoming ballot to ensure a better future for the people and restore investor confidence in the nation’s economy.
