I wrote my very first column for the Pretoria News in 2006.
I have thoroughly enjoyed writing the weekly Tuesday column which has focused on hundreds and hundreds of issues.
This is my last column. You are welcome to follow me on my blog www.abramjee.com or on Twitter @abramjee.
It’s a good time to reflect on some of my writings:
*There is no doubt that government handled the e-tolling issue poorly right from the very beginning.
*A large chunk of the anonymous tip-offs to Crime Line and to Crime Stop are drug related. This is a clear indication of just how widespread the problem is.
*On Sunday, I called the 10111 number to report a suspicious vehicle. The operator hung up on me a few times and then said: ‘F*** off’.
*We as residents need to use lights and water sparingly. While we need to ensure that we conserve energy, the authorities also have to ensure that we can keep up with the cost of living.
*There seems to be a growing culture of recklessness, negligence and lawlessness on the roads.
*Promises mean nothing to those who bear the brunt of non-delivery every day across our many towns, cities and remote areas of our country.
*Please continue to assist NGO’s and rape crisis centres who are in dire need of financial assistance and volunteers.
*Become an active citizen!
*Freedom of speech and expression should be used responsibly.
*Sport is not only about winning. When we lose, we must accept defeat and continue to be loyal supporters.
* Medical negligence is a serious issue and it needs to be treated as such. We as patients demand stern and decisive action by the authorities and not just a light wrap on the wrist for any wrongdoing.
*It is our duty to help those who are in need – be they hungry, orphans, the homeless, the elderly or the sick.
*Government communication is in need of urgent attention. While we have pockets of excellence, the general uselessness and unaccountability is a source of serious concern.
*South Africans must ask: “How can I assist?” Turn the negative into a positive.
*Our criminal justice system is in a mess and immediate action is needed to restore its credibility.
*The reality is that if the POIB becomes law, we going to see many black blocks and empty spaces like these in newspapers and hear bleeps on radio and television. Is this what you want? Surely not!
*Our achievements at the London Olympics have created unity and patriotism here at home.
*It’s easy for President Jacob Zuma to say teachers should be in class teaching seven hours each day. The government needs to ensure this happens.
*The time has come for all South Africans to take a stand against the on-going cop killings.
*When the media reports well, we must praise and encourage them. When the media falters, we must stand up and say so.
*Suggestions that Mandela Day has turned into an opportunistic PR venture is nothing more than a weak attempt to deflect from the good that is being done.
*Let’s all re-commit ourselves to Lead SA.
*I visited a fast-food restaurant recently. I was furious to see patrons smoking in the non-smoking area. They had absolutely no regard for others, and especially the children who were in the outlet.
*Most media organisations were barred from entering Zimbabwe to cover the recent poll. What is Mugabe afraid of? It’s a joke. It’s a sham. It’s outrageous.”
Yusuf
*I will continue to tackle issues and share my views on this blog. Thank you for your support!