By: Wendy Manjeya
Business Unity South Africa (Busa) has urged elected parties to prioritise investment, growth, and social development so that the nation is steered to a brighter future. Busa believes that a coalition government based on constitutionalism, market-friendly policies, and institutional independence is a significant step towards fostering a conducive environment for SMMEs.
Busa CEO Cas Coovadia said that by emphasising the importance of attracting both domestic and global investment, the new government of national unity could provide the necessary support and infrastructure for the growth and success of SMMEs. Currently, South Africa is at a crossroads. “One path leads to investment, inclusive growth, job creation, and the resolution of our socioeconomic crises. The other path will deepen our crises and hamper the much-needed recovery, with the most vulnerable bearing the burden. We urge the parties that the majority of our people voted for to choose the first road,” said Coovadia.
Effective service delivery and citizen empowerment were crucial for creating opportunities and enabling the development of SMMEs, which played a vital role in driving economic growth and creating jobs, he said. Speaking on the outcome of the elections, Coovadia said that while Busa was satisfied with the execution of the polls, she was concerned about some political players rejecting the election results. “We urge all political parties to act responsibly and refrain from inciting violence that could plunge the country into unrest. They should not exploit the vulnerability of the poor and unemployed to further their own narrow agenda,” he said.
The newly formed MK Party is now the third largest party. However, it is calling for a revote, citing allegations of vote rigging. The party has filed an urgent application with the Constitutional Court this week, seeking to halt the convening of Parliament for both houses until its grievances are addressed and adjudicated. Parliament is scheduled to hold its first sitting on Friday, and the MKP has threatened to boycott their 58 seats.
