One has to wonder whether this country won't do better without a government.

Reading the newspapers I can see that a lack of government action on many occasions - and then, of course, on occasions action that does not concern them - has led to more pressure on citizens because of inefficiency.

I narrow my thoughts down to three arguments.

The government finds it important to interfere in sports, the judiciary and business employment equity.

Yet it believes that no intervention is required in Zimbabwe, crime or HIV-Aids.

If the government were to intervene in Zimbabwe there would be fewer illegal immigrants in our country drawing on resources earmarked for South Africans.

If it made crime and corruption a priority it would lead to fewer resources being wasted and to an increase in confidence in the country.

The net effect would be more people returning home and more money in the system to increase productivity and household income, which in turn would translate to a thriving economy and an increase in jobs.

The cost of HIV to the economy has been highlighted many a time and needs no more emphasis.

It stands to reason that if the government has different priorities that will force citizens to take matters into their own hands.

Darren Bergman,

Johannesburg