Johannesburg, South Africa — Former Statistician-General Pali Lehohla has delivered a stark assessment of South Africa’s economic situation, suggesting that the nation’s economic collapse is the responsibility of all citizens.
In a recent IEC seminar in Centurion, Lehohla emphasized the need for transformative change, contending that the current economic landscape is a product of systemic issues, corruption, and the failure of government to utilize data for informed decision — making. Lehohla, who advocates for a shift to an economy valued at R21 trillion from the current R7 trillion, argues that the nation’s current economic state is indicative of a collapsed system, necessitating urgent and comprehensive reform. He dismisses the need for a national dialogue, as he believes the evidence of the country’s economic decline is already evident.
His observations reflect on his time as Statistician — General, during which he oversaw the appointment of Michael Manamela, who questioned the authenticity of provincial GDP reports. Lehohla suggests that the country’s economic challenges are not only tied to local governance failures but also to broader macroeconomic policies. Corruption and poor management of the economy, according to Lehohla, are the root causes of South Africa’s economic state, which he fears is detrimental to the country’s democratic future.
He further criticizes government economists for their lack of meaningful solutions and for not using data to inform policy decisions, contributing to the country’s slow economic growth and high unemployment rates. South Africa’s reliance on a $1. 5 billion loan from the World Bank for reforms is a stark contrast to the country’s self-reliant post-apartheid recovery efforts.
As Lehohla highlights the critical need for change, he also underscores the importance of addressing the structural issues that have led to the nation’s current economic collapse.
*Additional reporting by ImNews | Sources consulted: 5*
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This original article was produced by the ImNews editorial team
Source: enca
Source: Nokuthula Khanyile
