Corruption is one of the greatest challenges in and for our society and state in nowadays. We strongly believe that corruption does not have only serious negative consequences for the Country, government and people but is also the key and fundamental factor of state collapse. Fortunately this challenge can be cured and confronted. Combating corruption is however a societal and political discourse. Thus there is on the one hand the necessary to have vigilance and preventive measures and on the other hand the high sense of integrity to the managing and supervising agents in their responsibility to fight corruption.
Worldwide concern for combating corruption by improving the levels of governance and accountability has never been higher whether in public or in the private sector. This shows the clear link between corruption, good governance, transparence and the rule of law.
However, each country has its mechanisms to prevent corruption thereby restoring the integrity of public sector. There is generally a system of code of ethical behaviour. In case of South Africa, fighting corruption and achieving good governance are still challenges since 1994. Many anti- corruption initiatives have been put in place until the adoption of the Public Service Anti-Corruption Strategy (PSAS).
In fact, corruption concern in South Africa is crucial and needs particular attention for to materialize and fulfill the commitment of transformation and development of the country. South Africa has this strong political commitment to fight corruption, both in our political leadership and through collective civil mobilisation, range of legislation, an independent institutions such as Auditor-General, Public Protector and the Public Service Commission, a well-functioning criminal justice system, codes for conduct of Public Officials and codes that deal with breaches of conduct, the new Prevention of Corruption Act rectifies the shortcomings of the Corruption Act of 1992 (the Act is clear and explicit in its definitions and provides tools for investigation and prosecution as well as more severe penalties. It also provides for extra-territorial jurisdiction over offences, which is essential for compliance with international best practice and the practical issues of enterprises, which do business outside South Africa), corruption is still a challenge in the Democratic South Africa. And then why despite all above mentioned mechanisms?
The need to foster and sustain high levels of ethics in the public service has come into the spotlight with a global shift of focus. It is important to note that Integrity testing can have a role to play, and the assets and liabilities of officers at particular risk may need to be monitored. Though, to have integrity systems in place supported by good legislation and policy, effective implementation and enforcement of such legislation is a critical step in efforts to prevent and fight corruption. Furthermore, there is a huge need to enhance control of political parties private and public funds by regulating them and then ensuring accountability and transparency.
Therefore, depolitised and independent media, justice system together with vibrant and strong civil society have to play a great role by monitoring and fighting against corruption. But they need laws that guarantee their work and safety. Lastly, decent salaries for public sector official and officer, forces of order (Police Officer) and security, judiciary and civil service, is another crucial response to the fight against corruption. It is now time for us to be winners.
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