The South African Human Rights Commission comments on President Thabo Mbeki's State of the Nation Address
11 February 2005
The South African Human Rights Commission (SAHRC) welcomed President Mbeki's State of the Nation Address, as it focussed
considerably on a commitment to improve socio-economic conditions to advance human rights, particularly for vulnerable
groups.
SAHRC Chairperson Jody Kollapen said: "We welcome the progress made by government, but note with concern that some of
the important targets set have not, or will not be met.
"We appreciate the President's acknowledgement that government's weaknesses have resulted in the slow delivery of some
services, especially school infrastructure, water, sanitation and public works programmes at a much slower pace than
previously planned.
"But we welcome his plan to improve government competencies such as management, organisational and technical
competencies - including the capacity of provinces and local government - so that government may meet its socio-economic
objectives."
Kollapen applauded Mbeki for his plans to reduce the number of children in police and prison custody, increase the
amount of sexual offences courts, create correctional facilities with a focus on rehabilitation and education, and
expand policing to more areas.