Cyril Ramaphosa on why he’s unhappy with SAA’s business rescue decisions

South African President Cyril Ramaphosa expressed his displeasure with decisions taken by the SAA Business Rescue Practitioners to cancel some domestic and regional flights as he left for the 33rd Ordinary Session of the Assembly of the African Union Commission Summit in Addis Ababa. Ramaphosa emphasized the importance of embracing challenges as opportunities for growth and unity, both at home and on the continent. During a televised interview on CNBC Africa, the President addressed concerns about the future of South African Airways (SAA) and reaffirmed the government's commitment to finding a sustainable solution for the troubled airline. Ramaphosa noted that SAA plays a vital role in the country's economy and as a symbol of national pride, and highlighted the need for a collaborative approach to ensure its long-term success. The President's comments come amidst ongoing turbulence in the aviation industry, exacerbated by the COVID-19 pandemic and years of financial instability at SAA. The Business Rescue Practitioners recently announced plans to cancel domestic flights, a decision that has been met with resistance from the government. Ramaphosa expressed his disagreement with this move, citing the importance of preserving SAA as a key player in the country's transportation network. He stated that the government is committed to revamping and revitalizing the airline, rather than shutting it down outright. In response to the Business Rescue Practitioners' decision, Ramaphosa revealed that the Minister would be making a statement to address the situation and seek a way forward. The President stressed the need for transparency and dialogue in finding a sustainable solution for SAA, ensuring that it remains a strong and profitable entity. By standing against the cancellation of domestic flights and advocating for the airline's restructuring, Ramaphosa signaled his determination to protect jobs and uphold SAA's role as a cornerstone of South Africa's air travel industry. As the nation grapples with economic challenges and the impact of the pandemic, Ramaphosa's stance on SAA reflects a broader commitment to supporting key sectors and industries. The President's call for unity and collaboration in overcoming challenges resonates with his vision of a resilient and prosperous South Africa. Despite the uncertainties surrounding SAA's future, Ramaphosa's assurance of a strategic plan to revive the airline offers a glimmer of hope for employees and passengers alike. With a strong emphasis on national pride and economic viability, the government's efforts to navigate the complexities of SAA's restructuring underscore the importance of strategic decision-making and stakeholder engagement in charting a path forward.