ANC Debates On Twitter and Answers To The Public: Jessie Duarte on ‘Elections 2009’

Today at 12h00 The ANC’s Jessie Duarte got on Twitter – the social media microblogging community and answered questions from the South African twitter public. There were 277 followers of the debate profile @ANC_Debate and although the proposed time frame was an hour, an appeasing Jessie continued for a while longer. This is an interesting and rather impressive (i think i just threw up a bit in my mouth) step by the ANC to use social media as a way of interacting with voters and the South African public.

The questions were obviously selected by Jessie and then posted on the @ANC_Debate page – followed by her answer. There's often heated political debate on CTA so I thought we would all find this interesting. Here are some of the questions posed, and the responses Jessie provided on behalf of the ANC – likely to be South Africa’s next ruling party.

Let's talk economy: What are you going to do to stop a local recession? What about unemployment?

A massive public investment in infrastructure will stimulate economic activity, increased public works, support to key sectors.

What will you do about crime in south africa?

Overhaul criminal justice system - better coordination, modernise systems, more resources. Organise communities and deal with causes.

In the ANC's opinion, what is the root cause of poverty and crime?

Failure over many decades to invest in our people and their education. Poverty has dropped in 15 years but more must be done.

What will you be doing about the corruption in SA?

We cannot tolerate corrupt officials. But need to strengthen anti-corruption measures. Need to involve public in detecting corruption.

What is the ANC’s definition of a leader?

Someone who is prepared to be led, who is accountable. Who is prepared to take difficult decisions and to serve selflessly.

Do you believe that cartoonists are too irreverent? Would the ANC like to regulate satire?

Cartoonists are supposed to be irreverent. Satire is important. But they should adhere to same code of ethics as any other journalist.

What in your opinion was the ANC's biggest mistake over the last 15 years?

Not so much a mistake, but not enough effort put into involving people in govt and in decisions about their lives.

How do you plan to meet SA power needs while limiting our carbon footprint. Focus seems to be coalSA needs to move away from coal but likely to remain major source of energy for foreseeable future. Increasing investment in nuclear, solar and wind power?

Apart from election talks, the ANC has generally been seen as "anti-white". Why should the people believe otherwise? ANC is the foremost champion of non-racialism. It has consistently fought for a South Africa that belongs to all who lives in it.

How will you improve public transport?

Major investment in bus rapid transit in all metros now underway and upgrading passenger rail.

What do you have to say against allegations that South Africa's media will be curtailed by the government after the election?

That's a scare tactic. ANC fought for media freedom and there's nothing to suggest we would undermine it.

What will ANC do about AIDS in next 5 years?

Focus on prevention, encourage condom use and responsible behaviour. Expand ART to cover all who need it. Strengthen p/ships across society

Could you point out 2 key policies that the ANC administration would champion

1.   Creating decent work in a growing economy. 2. Ensuring access for all to quality education.

What will be happening after the elections? will be be hearing from the ANC on twitter?

This debate shows there's potential for using this for meaningful dialogue. We'll need to iron out the kinks. Suggestions welcome