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Premier Alan Winde's State of the Province Address (SOPA) clearly shows that this DA-led provincial government’s primary concern is the safety and wellbeing of all its residents, along with economic growth and job creation.

I welcome the various announcement by the Premier, as it demonstrates the visionary leadership that is only available under a DA-led government. These announcements include a few firsts and the shifting of certain responsibilities and functions. Amongst others, we are excited to see what the new Department of Infrastructure will entail.

Infrastructure development leads to economic growth and job creation, which in turn tends to significantly improve the lives of people.

We’re also looking forward to the Mobility Department and how they will address the various mobility challenges. This is another urgent intervention, as the national ANC government continues to be incapable of getting Prasa fully operational.

It is pleasing to note that the Premier has not lost sight of some of the current challenges, such as the continued GBV that is not only plaguing the Western Cape, but the entire country. The fact that all departments in the province committed to adopting the GBV implementation plan, speaks volumes of how serious this province is taking the fight against GBV. This is also demonstrated in the dedicated Violence Prevention Unit, which is a first in the country and will be hosted in the Provincial Health Department.

Keeping the people of the Western Cape safe and ensuring they live in dignity continues to be a priority for the DA and its provincial government.

The renaming of the Provincial Department of Community Safety to the Department of Police Oversight and Community Safety, to expand the monitoring of police stations across the country with a particular focus on GBV and other violent crimes will assist in holding our law enforcement accountable should they fail to efficiently execute their duties.

We’ve long called for the devolution of powers, as the ANC continues to fail us dismally. The current disjuncture between the National Police Minister and Police Commissioner is part of the reason why provinces should take charge of the SAPS, as crime fighting is clearly not a priority for them. Instead, their own squabbling is most important to them. We’re closer to the people and know what is required in our communities.

I call on the people of our country to assist us in completely dismissing the ANC and all their alliance partners and ensure that they do not return as the national government in 2024.

We commend Premier Winde and his entire cabinet for putting the people of the province first.

Issued by Acting DA Western Cape Leader, Tertuis Simmers MPL

Tertuis Simmers MPL

Acting DA Western Cape Leader