Letters

The coming of 2010 and the Soccer World Cup would, it seems, be the panacea for all South Africa's woes.

The politicians and sports administrators have bestowed a sense of almost messianic fervour on that year. They have charged us to embrace the event with enthusiasm and commitment.

"2010'' does not need to be explained anymore. Just mention the year, that's enough. In fact, 2010 is no longer seen as merely another year. It has become a mantra that is enthusiastically hauled out to slay all the dragons of doubt and danger that confront us every day.

South Africans have been assured that the crushing crime problem will not affect our overseas visitors during World Cup 2010. Our transport services will be upgraded to ensure that spectators get to venues safely and on time. Stadiums will be built or upgraded to required FIFA standards.

Sufficient accommodation will be provided for everyone. In fact, all will be well to ensure that South Africa puts on a really good show. We will even have a new "show train" called the Gautrain.

Lest we all jubilantly celebrate the coming of this astonishing new epoch in the history of our country, I wonder what will happen in the meantime.

Do we, the locals, continue to suffer the slings and arrows of a bungling Safety and Security Department, headed by an insensitive and incompetent minister?

Do we continue to live in fear for the next three years as we wait for the arrival of the good times? Will we also be protected during 2010 from the barbaric savages that stalk our communities, or will only visitors be protected?

Can we expect a truly First World transportation system, or will it only be for the few weeks of the World Cup?

And when will this transportation system actually become a reality?

I have seen no signs that things are actually being put in place.

And why should the World Cup be the main reason for improving our commuter transport system?

Will the fancy new stadiums be fully utilised after 2010, or will they become white elephants?

And who will be responsible for the maintenance and upkeep of these edifices? We, the long-suffering tax payers?

In addition, will the whole process of World Cup 2010 be properly monitored and audited to ensure that the usual fat cats do not enrich themselves further, at the expense of the masses, as is normally the case?

Will someone keep tabs on the politicians, sports administrators and their families to ensure that ticket scams do not become the order of the day?

I truly hope that the promises being made about World Cup 2010 ensuring a better life for all, comes to pass.

Somehow, after having heard similar assurances before - remember the arms deal? - I have my doubts.

But I will remain hopeful. I have to.

Surely, we will get things right one day, won't we?

Won't we?

With acknowledgement to Adam Hess and Cape Times.