During these troubled times for our young democracy, the SA Jewish Board of Deputies (SAJBD) calls on all citizens to unite in confronting corruption and maladministration, protecting the Constitution and fostering a stable economic and political environment. It is undeniable that the principles of accountability and good governance are being seriously undermined and that the interests of isolated factions and individuals appear to be getting precedence over those of the country as a whole. Regardless of race, political affiliation and social background, South Africans must work together in confronting these serious problems.
It is further critical that the independence and integrity of South Africa’s democratic institutions be assiduously upheld. Should this be compromised, it will be impossible to achieve the stability, efficiency, economic growth and good governance needed to addressing problems of poverty and inequality in our society. Indeed, the overwhelming likelihood is that the situation will only further deteriorate.
South Africans have come too far and achieved too much together to allow their country to become a failed state. By working together in a spirit of shared commitment to meeting the challenges of the day, we will ensure that it does not happen.
The SAJBD urges the national leadership to seriously reflect on the direction it is taking the country, in particular its actions of the past week, and take whatever steps are necessary to begin rebuilding confidence, both locally and internationally, in South Africa, its leadership and its governing structures.