Last week Armscor put out a Request For Information (RFI) for a new VIP intercontinental aircraft on the request of the Department of Defence (DoD) in order to "increase their current capacity to provide intercontinental air transportation to members of the SA Government." The Democratic Alliance believes that the need for a new presidential jet is irrational, irresponsible and cannot be justified in the current economic climate.
I have therefore written to the President, urging him to show leadership by instructing the procurement process to be halted as a matter of urgency. If the President puts South Africa first then he should order the DoD to cancel the proposal and focus on ensuring that the real problems, such as the jobs crisis, chronic higher education funding crisis and impending water crisis, are addressed instead.
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