The statement made by the Gauteng Premier, David Makhura, during his budget speech – that the province will focus on black economic development – is irrational and reflects his indifference to minority groups.
The province's economic policy and other programmes should focus on the entire population and not only on the majority.
During his budget speech, Makhura explained in detail the Gauteng government's economic development programme in townships aimed at making it easier and cheaper for small, informal businesses to enter the formal business sector.
A total of R598 million was earmarked for this purpose. He also made mention of government aid to black farmers.
The FF Plus pointed out to Makhura that the province’s economic and social policy must also cater for minority groups.
According to statistics, the South African population consists of 19% minorities, of which 8,8% is coloured, 7,8% is white and 2,5% is Indian. (Source: South Africa People 2020, CIA World Factbook (theodora.com))
Makhura's approach to minorities reflects his ignorance of the severe poverty affecting most minority groups.
The FF Plus will not abandon its cause of fighting for minorities in a province where economic development policy focuses only on the majority.
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