If leaders were truly invested in continuing with the service delivery goals of the country’s democratic dispensation, writes Corruption Watch’s Moepeng Talane, they would publicly acknowledge the systemic flaws that make it difficult to deliver those services and they would come up with tangible solutions. The recent State of the Nation address exemplifies this convenient overlooking of the reality for millions.
Health journalism centre Bhekisisa has just released a new episode of Health Beat, this one dealing with corruption in the healthcare system. The team visits Tembisa Hospital, discusses the National Health Insurance Bill, and laments the lack of successful prosecutions against people implicated in health corruption.
If leaders were truly invested in continuing with the service delivery goals of the country’s democratic dispensation, they would publicly acknowledge the systemic flaws that make it difficult to deliver those services and they would come up with tangible solutions.
Why is the sixth administration so intent on steamrolling its way to politically desired outcomes while disdaining its constitutional obligation to allow public involvement, asks Corruption Watch’s Melusi Ncala. By deliberately not allowing the public to engage meaningfully with appointments and other processes, the legislature is acting undemocratically and unconstitutionally.
With elections around the corner, it is time for citizens to stop enabling government corruption and realise that as voters in a democratic society, they hold the power, writes CW chairperson Themba Maseko. By demanding accountability and condemning mediocrity, citizens will put pressure on elected leaders and public servants to institute lasting changes.
As South Africa prepares for the elections on 29 May and political parties rally behind their manifestos full of promises of change, writes Siphokuhle Mkancu for CW Voices, it is important for the citizenry to reflect on gender-based violence (GBV). We must ask ourselves where is the will of South Africa’s political leadership to address not only the high levels of GBV, but also the extent to which they are affected by power dynamics and vulnerabilities brought about by corruption in the law enforcement sector.
With ethical leadership, robust and inclusive systems, and new, progressive ideas, writes Kavisha Pillay, we can transform from a land of stolen dreams to one of realised potential. These are good places to start – but there are no quick fixes and we must all chip in, realising this is a long-term effort.
It is unnecessary to turn to Hollywood movies on transnational organised crime – it no longer lives on the screen and in our imaginations but is a living threat to global economies, national and public safety and security, democracy, and human rights. Recognising this, the UN General Assembly recently established 15 November as a new commemorative day, the International Day for the Prevention of and Fight against All Forms of Transnational Organized Crime.
Even before we vote in what is arguably the most anticipated and contentious general election since the dawn of South Africa’s democracy, writes Moepeng Talane for CW Voices, we’ve already witnessed two significant, never-before-experienced events that speak to the sanctity of our Constitution and the governance principles contained therein.
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.