8 February 2006
Cabinet today received a briefing on preparations for the March 1 local
government elections, in particular on matters relating to securing the
election process. Basing themselves on previous experience in contributing to
citizensâ right freely to cast their votes, the security agencies have formed
relevant structures to co-ordinate their work, to conduct law-enforcement
operations, to ensure that parties are able to canvass for votes in an
atmosphere of free political activity and to provide the Independent Electoral
Commission with logistical support.
The meeting was briefed on legislative and other preparations for the Budget
Speech of the Minister of Finance which will be presented to Parliament next
week. This includes the Division of Revenue Bill on the allocation of national
revenue equitably among the three spheres of government.
The following appointments were approved:
* Dr Philemon Mphathi Mjwara as Director-General (DG) of the Department of
Science and Technology, currently employed by the CSIR;
* CEO of the Civil Aviation Authority;
* Mr Peter G Mhangwani as Land Claims Commissioner for Mpumalanga
Province;
* Adv. Ngoako Ramatlhodi as Chairperson of the Council of the Private Security
Industry Regulatory Authority; and
* Two Deputy Directors-General each in Statistics SA and the Department of
Communications.
Cabinet noted the report of the Auditor-General on the 2004/05 financial
year with regard to submission of Annual Reports and the Audit Outcomes on
National and Provincial Government entities. While noting that there had been
improvements in compliance, the meeting expressed concern that a number of
Departments had not met the deadlines.
It was agreed that Accounting Officers should submit to their principals
corrective steps to address concerns raised in their Audit Reports, and that
the implementation of such steps needed to be monitored. Performance Agreements
of relevant Accounting Officers will be updated to take these issues into
account. Further, comprehensive guidelines will be developed on aligning
Departmental service delivery indicators with estimates of National Expenditure
and strategic plans, and on risk management.
Cabinet noted preparations for the Progressive Governance Network Summit,
which will bring together leaders of governments who share common progressive
views on domestic and global matters. South Africa is proud to host this
interaction, which will not only strengthen joint action in pursuit of
democracy, peace and development; but also position our country as a leading
partner in these global efforts.
The meeting agreed on a proposal to finalise matters pertaining to the
transfer of title deeds and trade names of resorts disposed by Aventura Limited
to Forever Resorts. The settlement, which is in the interest of both parties,
takes into account issues such as land claims, flood-line restrictions and
right of way servitude; and will entail some discount agreed with Forever
Resorts.
The SA Institute for Drug-Free Sport Amendment Bill was approved for
submission to Parliament.
The meeting noted developments â within South Africa and abroad â with
regard to the controversy surrounding the cartoon portrayal of Prophet
Mohammed. Government acknowledges the hurt that this act has caused among
Muslims in our country and across the globe; and we appreciate the fact that,
on the whole, South Africans affected by this development have sought to find
one another in a spirit of mutual respect.
South Africa upholds the principle of freedom of speech. However, we do
appreciate that our Constitution enjoins us, in exercising this right, to
respect the sensitivities of individuals and communities, and to eschew actions
that may be interpreted as hate speech. With regard to the Court judgement on
this matter, Cabinet is of the view that all of us should respect decisions of
our courts and, where necessary, use the mechanisms of recourse available in
our judicial system.
The meeting noted that consultations were continuing between Transnet
management and the leadership of the unions to resolve matters pertaining to
the necessary restructuring of this entity, in the interest of higher rates of
growth and employment-creation.
For further information contact:
Joel Netshitenzhe
Cell: 082 900 0083
Issued by: Government Communications (GCIS)
8 February 2006
