MANIFESTO

A Stronger, Fairer Free State: A 10-Point Progressive Manifesto

Delivered by Sesing Ramotswabodi

Fellow Free Staters, we stand at a crossroads. Our province, blessed with abundant potential, is burdened by unemployment, failing infrastructure, and social inequality. It's time for a change, a bold plan to build a Free State that works for everyone. This manifesto is my commitment to you:

1. Jobs, Jobs, Jobs: We will create a jobs revolution by:
Investing in Agriculture: The Free State is the heart of South Africa's breadbasket. We will partner with farmers (both large and small) to leverage our agricultural strength, creating jobs in processing, logistics, and export.
Public-Private Partnerships: We will forge strong partnerships with the private sector to invest in infrastructure, renewable energy, and knowledge-based industries, creating sustainable jobs across the province.

2. Education for All: Every child deserves a quality education that equips them for the future. We will:
Align Education with the Economy: We'll work with industry leaders to develop a curriculum that aligns with the Free State's economic needs. This ensures graduates have the skills employers seek.
Universal, Quality Education: We're committed to providing free, top-tier education at all levels. We will invest in teacher training, resources, and infrastructure to ensure every child thrives.
Historic School Debt Relief: We will wipe the slate clean, forgiving all historic school debt, both primary and high school, so families can focus on their children's futures.

3. Supporting Small Businesses: Small businesses are the backbone of our economy. We will:
Clear the Invoice Backlog: We will prioritize settling the R1.2 billion owed to small businesses by the Free State government, ensuring financial stability and growth.
Streamlined Bureaucracy: We will cut red tape and simplify regulations, making it easier for small businesses to operate and create jobs.

4. Restoring Local Government: We will rebuild trust and efficiency in local municipalities by:
Ending Cadre Deployment: We will appoint qualified professionals based on merit, not political connections, to ensure competent leadership in our municipalities.
Financial Accountability: We will implement strict financial controls to eliminate unauthorized expenditure and ensure responsible use of public funds.

5. A Healthy Free State: Healthcare is a basic right. We will:
Reform the System: We will address supply chain issues, upskill existing staff, and fill skill gaps in our healthcare system to deliver quality care.
Reduce Medical Negligence: We will invest in training and implement stricter protocols to prevent medical negligence, saving lives and reducing the financial burden on the government.

6. Managing Immigration: We recognize the contribution of immigrants to our economy. We will:
Fair Immigration Policies: We will implement fair and efficient immigration policies that protect South African jobs while welcoming those who contribute positively.

7. Helium: A Golden Opportunity: The discovery of helium in the Free State presents a golden opportunity. We will:
Sustainable Development: We will develop a comprehensive plan for helium exploration and extraction that prioritizes environmental sustainability and benefits Free State communities.

8. Food Security Council:
We will establish a Free State Food Security Council to ensure food security for all residents and explore opportunities for export, creating jobs and income.

9. Land Reform:
We are committed to land reform that empowers previously disadvantaged individuals. Land profits will be shared with those who work the land, correcting the injustices of the past.

10. Decentralization and Spatial Justice:
We will break down apartheid spatial planning by decentralizing economic activity. This means spreading industries across the province, ensuring all communities have access to jobs and development.

Together, we can build a Free State that is strong, fair, and prosperous for all. Let's get to work!

Vote Sesing Ramotswabodi on the 29th May, 2024 on the Pink Provincial Ballot Paper