THE office of a politician, whether in national, provincial or local government, is a high one. Persons holding same, either by appointment or having been elected democratically by way of the ballot box, are expected to have positive qualities, primarily proficiency and integrity and must be people serving.

In our 30 years of democracy, all three tiers of government were graced by some persons with proficiency and integrity and people serving.

Regrettably now, the government has been disgraced by persons lacking proficiency and integrity and not being people serving. They are a “breyani mix” of criminals, fraudsters, corrupt, looters, smooth talkers and con artists.

It is my firm belief that one must have a minimum level of academic qualifications in order to serve as a politician. For a good start a matric should be the prescribed minimum. I make a strong plea for suitable legislation to be enacted urgently amending the Constitution to give effect to this innovation. This should be music to the ears of millions of sane and right-minded persons.

In addition, politicians must be literate with computers and numeracy, both being the Achilles heel even of many professionals with tertiary qualifications. Dignity and decorum too are required. It is just too painful and shameful how South Africa in democracy had in all levels of government politicians of the aforementioned negative attributes, many of whom were then ruling party cronies, lackeys and roped in by nepotism or other quid pro quo deal.

What is extremely worrying is the crime, fraud and corruption that has not yet been unearthed or has been swept under the carpet. The NPA must up its game so that justice is served and the crooks are brought to book. As a start it should get a new head that is proficient, credible and produces results.

The current Director of Public Prosecutions Shamila Batohi is certainly out of her depth. South Africa is a great country and a great nation. If US President Donald Trump strives foremost to make America great again, we too can be the same. The power is with the people, especially at the ballot box.

SIMON T DEHAL

Verulam

** The views expressed do not necessarily reflect the views of IOL or Independent Media.

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