The 2016 Corruption Perceptions Index, released today by Transparency International, shows the need for urgent anti-corruption reforms that tackle the problem at a deep-rooted, systemic level. Nothing less will empower citizens to stop the widespread impunity for corruption, hold the powerful to account, and have a real say in the decisions that affect their daily lives.
Global anti-corruption organisation Transparency International releases its 22nd annual Corruption Perceptions Index on Wednesday, 25 January 2017. This year’s index ranks 176 countries/territories by their perceived levels of public sector corruption – watch this space to see how South Africa fares.
Corruption Watch researchers recently analysed the reports we have received pertaining to applications for driver’s licences, specifically in Gauteng, with a view to highlighting corruption trends in licence departments. Not only bribery, bot also irregular employment, embezzlement of funds, and corruption pertaining to fraudulent documents are happening in licence centres around the province.
South Africa’s second end-of-term report for its Open Government Partnership activities was a disappointment. Out of seven commitments, the country completed none, nor did it achieve any milestones. This means that after the completion of two action plan cycles, South Africa has fulfilled one commitment out of 15.
It’s clear that the South African government recognises the importance of partnerships with civil society in boosting accountability, writes Fola Adeleke. But it stands accused of paying lip service to the idea of inclusivity. Indeed, the shrinking space for civil society in governance that is seen around the world is also evident in South Africa.
Commenting on Johannesburg mayor Herman Mashaba’s recent statement on the fight against licence corruption in the metro, our executive director David Lewis said: “We would hope that the leadership of the province and the metros, several of which are in the hands of DA-led coalitions, would see their way clear to joining hands in fighting corruption on a non-partisan basis.”
The second South African Citizens Bribery Survey, released recently by the Ethics Institute, showed that it’s the minority of people – although only just – who pay bribes, and that many South Africans have strong moral views against bribery. The percentage who refuse to pay a bribe, as opposed to those who simply not been asked, is still disappointingly small.
Transparency International, the global anti-corruption movement of which Corruption Watch is a chapter, has compiled a list of its most inspiring stories of 2016. The work done by officials within […]
Sars commissioner Tom Moyane has indicated the tax office will act on law firm Hogan Lovells’ findings, which means that second-in-command Jonas Makwakwa is not off the hook.
Visit our GivenGain R20 for Change page and help us demand transparency in our systems, accountability in our leaders, and better empowerment and protection of whistle-blowers. By donating R20 a month, you’ll be supporting our work with communities across the country, helping them to know and access their rights and reduce the corruption that robs people of resources intended for their benefit.