Corruption tsunami fears no legislation

THE Independent Development Trust matter is growing evidence that far more stringent legislation and penalties are required to root out corruption in the Public Service and State-owned enterprises.

- LORENZO A DAVIDS

The Public Services Regulations of 2016, as amended in 2023, are a clear set of rules instructing public servants to avoid and report corruption; however, the practice thereof reveals a house on fire.

Given the culture of perverse personal enrichment in South Africa, led by the African National Congress and its corporate and political alliances, it’s clear that the legislation is not strong enough, nor is it applied without fear or favour. In addition, the penalties for such corrupt conduct are not severe enough. However, even more disheartening is the culture that suggests such enrichment and personal gain are not inherently wrong.

Recent reports in June highlighted that the Johannesburg City Council had awarded several contracts worth almost R1 billion to family members of city officials and councillors for the extension of the city’s bus transport system. The governing party and the mayor did not see any problem with it.