Chairperson, 

The Inkatha Freedom Party has consistently supported the GCIS Vote as we acknowledge that government must communicate its policies, plans and programmes to the citizens of our country. 

This year is no different but we will register various concerns in the time that we have. 

The GCIS states in its reports to Parliament that fostering "a positive communication environment" is one of its core priorities.  It admits, however, that "relationships" between government and the media continue to have their "highs and lows." 

It cannot be easy to promote a Government gripped with internal political in-fighting and with Ministers, department officials and party-political ANC Alliance functionaries, continuously sending out mixed messages on all manner of important issues.    

When Eskom plunges the country into darkness and our mines have to shut down, just how much positive spin can the GCIS put on that calamity? They have our sympathy. 

There are more murders and rapes and other physical assaults in South Africa every year than in countries in the grip of conflicts and wars. Airport gangs follow unsuspecting tourists and rob and attack them.  The examples of what a tough job it must be for the GCIS to "always look on the bright side" of life in South Africa are, alas, copious.   

So what does the political leadership of the GCIS do in the midst of all this?! They fire one of our best strategic communicators whose job it was to, in part, encourage international investment and tourism! 

One can only wonder what the tight-knit international marketing community thought when the highly-respected head of the International Marketing Council, Ms Yvonne Johnson, was recently fired overnight. 

It is no secret that an attempt by the IMC to assist the new ANC President, Mr Jacob Zuma, with formulating some consistent and clear messages about "Brand South Africa" -- after his recent disastrous BBC interview -- was her downfall.   

It is, after all, the job of the IMC to promote the best image possible of South Africa and its leaders, whoever they may be.  

Her excellent work, over many years, in building BRAND SOUTH AFRICA must be applauded and our thanks go to her for so professionally sending out the message that South Africa is, indeed, "ALIVE WITH POSSIBILITIES". 

Nobody, including the IFP, has swallowed the cover-up of her being fired because of a "breakdown" in her relationship with the GCIS.    

The "powers-that-be" are suspected to be planning to replace her with a political appointment (if they haven't already).   Here we go again!  A big mistake!  You just have to look at the SABC board and management to see where that gets you! 

The GCIS "show" must, nevertheless, go on.  For the most part they are a hard-working team who deserve our support. 

Much needs to be disseminated and the six "key campaigns" as outlined by the GCIS look good on paper.   

The focus issues relating to (1) "Governance and Administration" within South Africa; (2) "International Relations, Peace and Security"; (3) "Economic Investment and Employment"; (4) "Justice, Crime Prevention and Security"; (5) the "Social Sector" and (6) various other "transversal" campaigns including the National Strategic Plan for HIV and AIDS and the 2010 FIFA World Cup are clearly required and will require expertise and commitment of the highest order. 

Numerous other programmes and sub-programmes include, of course, the International Marketing Council and the Media Development and Diversity Agency which is doing excellent work in promoting local media development and diversity. Policy and research, government media liaison, the GCIS handbook and magazine production are just some other activities. 

The IFP specifically acknowledges the work the GCIS has continuously attempted to partner with civil society on issues relating to violence against women and children as well as HIV/Aids.   

We need to hear about the efficacy of these partnerships. How well are they working and to what degree?   

Has there been a substantive analysis of these outreaches? More information on the research being conducted is required. 

As time is now at an end, the IFP, once again, SUPPORTS THE BUDGET VOTE OF THE GCIS. 
 

FOR MORE INFORMATION
Mr Velaphi Ndlovu MP
083 625 0803