Steenhuisen calls for economic focus and job creation

AHEAD of the Cabinet Lekgotla scheduled for next week, DA leader John Steenhuisen has articulated his expectations regarding discussions that could shape the forthcoming State of the Nation Address and the 2026 budget.

- MAYIBONGWE MAQHINA

Steenhuisen emphasised that a focus on the economy and job creation is paramount, stating, “nothing else makes sense unless we're setting out very clearly how we intend to grow the economy and create jobs”.

He noted that job creation shouldn't rest solely with President Cyril Ramaphosa or the Treasury; rather, it is the responsibility of every minister in government to demonstrate progress in their respective sectors.

“I think we all need to be held accountable for how many jobs we're creating in our programs and in our sectors,” he said, emphasising a collaborative effort amidst challenging economic circumstances. “We have to get South Africans working and South Africa to work.”