The content on this page is not written by Polity.org.za, but is supplied by third parties. This content does not constitute news reporting by Polity.org.za.

Trevor Manuel owes the South African public an explanation. He has maxed-out on his car allowance (to the tune of R1.2 million), at a time when all South Africans are feeling the pinch of an economic recession; and he has done so in spite of repeated calls, by himself and the President, for both government and the South African public to practice austerity and prudence in the way in which they spend money. It is hypocritical and unaccountable behaviour from the person largely responsible for giving strategic direction to the country's administration. The Minister did not state in his reply what "additional extras" were included in his purchase; only that they came to a total of R99 200 and included "standard manufactures extras". BMW's website (see here <http://www.mailfire.co.za/link/QlJVTj0xMTg4MyZMSUQ9MzgxMjAmU0lEPTEwMTk1MzY=.aspx> ) states that there are three package options - ‘Sports', ‘Innovation' and ‘Individual' - none of which come to R99 200. Presumably the Minister went for a combination of odds and ends. Quite what that included - anything from leather steering wheels to ambient interior lighting to ‘high gloss shadow line' - is hard to say. Certainly none of them are necessary to go about the business of carrying out his mandate. If they are, then Mr. Manuel must explain why. The Democratic Alliance will submit a further written question to the Minister in the Presidency, as well as to all other ministers who have indulged in the purchase of luxury vehicles, asking why it is they decided on the particular car they bought - as opposed to other, cheaper models - and how that purchase holds up to the President's call that: "Since the implementation of our programme will take place in the face of the economic downturn, we will have to act prudently - no wastage, no rollovers of funds - every cent must be spent wisely and fruitfully. We must cut our cloth according to our size." One of the key attributes of good leadership is setting a precedent that others can aspire to. Part of that requirement is, on the one hand, a willingness to explain one's actions, to be accountable. On the other hand, and just as important, is an ability to make the right kind of decisions in the first place. Trevor Manuel is failing on both counts.