In Focus Sunday June 11th, 2006 . . .SABC2 18:30

Is it a Crime to Whine?

His profile lists “composing choral music” as a favourite pastime. But his recent comments about crime have evoked a chorus of protest.  During his recent budget speech in Parliament, Safety and Security Minister, Charles Nqakula was quoted as having lashed out at opposition parties complaining about crime.

 “Those ones can continue to whinge until they’re blue in the face, they can continue to be as negative as they want to or they can simply leave this country so that all of the peace-loving South Africans, good South African people who want to make this a successful country can continue with their work.”  (Cape Argus Web edition June 2 2006)  

The searing criticism that followed the remarks has obscured an announcement in the budget speech that can have far reaching consequences for the fight against crime. In an interview this Sunday evening, Fokus presenter, Freek Robinson will ask the minister to respond on criticism about his remarks and delve deeper into the proposed restructuring of the police service.

AND

THE COST OF EMPOWERING FARM WORKERS  

They’re minority shareholders with a big dream.  The farm workers of Olievenhoutskloof near Oudtshoorn have a vested interest in the success of their harvests.  Since 2002 they own 49-percent of the farm.  But sofar the dividends have been used to pay off debt. 

Trustees have accused the Western Cape department of Agriculture of reneging on promises of financial help. The department has hit back and questioned the financial management of the trust.   

Meanwhile the majority shareholder and previous owner of the original farm, Manie du Plessis, says he cannot continue to carry the debt burden on his own.

Will his dream project go to ground?

Producer Keith Sayster investigates.