Hon Chairperson, Mr President, after your state of the nation address, the stand you have taken at the World Economic Conference is indeed very praiseworthy.
Mr President, since you are so very interested in clean administration, we would like you to have an anticorruption squad, like India's CBI, that can investigate, confiscate and detain politicians and public servants for unaccounted-for enrichment.
There are certain structures that fall directly under the Presidency. We are indeed glad that the Minister has elaborated in detail on the issue of the promotion and advancement of the youth, and the establishment of the NYDA. However, the MF strongly believes that it requires more structuring.
The MF proposes that what would be of more benefit to the youth would be consideration of a law, to be called the "Youth Employment Act". However, it is very important that in equity legislation we must not only add the various racial agendas; it must be prescribed by law that a minimum percentage of those employed in the public and private sectors must be youths. The MF strongly urges you, Mr President, to create a Ministry and department for youth affairs.
As you are aware, June 16 was very highly recognised this year, after you had assumed the role of President. The very fact that a record number of youths have come out and registered means that they are interested in the affairs of the country, and indeed they must not be left behind.
It is very important that the Presidency reflects the broad cross-section of the province's population - Madiba set a perfect example - in that the employment of your staff shows the composite of the nature of South Africa's multicultural society.
Mr President, you spoke about reaching out to other political parties. The MF proposes that you create an informal political party leadership forum so that, over a cup of tea, we can regulate and exchange views with you. [Interjections.] It is very important that we show not only in words, but in deeds, that we are working across the party-political divides. Even when you have to take staff or advisors, etc, do not ignore people who may not belong to the majority party.
Mr President, historically, the two "Ps" became historical like Madiba. You came from the prison to the Presidency. These are facts of history that are very significant. I am sure that the Presidency, under your leadership, will be very vibrant. Remember the example of President Obama. He selected an outstanding team and we also want to commend to you that we would like to see senior appointments to the Presidency coming from the youth.
The MF strongly believes that the war against poverty should be in the Presidency.