Graft robs nation of development

CORRUPTION is the antithesis of good governance and, President Cyril Ramaphosa has said, so big that it must be addressed by the whole nation.

Corruption certainly seems like something the whole nation wants to see the back of, hence the delight in the announcement of a new National Director of Public Prosecutions and a new office to support her in dealing with cases of corruption.

From central government, to the provinces and municipalities, dealing with corruption lies at the heart of what needs to be done to improve the lives of all citizens.

Since the testimony of Angelo Agrizzi about the Bosasa wheelings and dealings, it is hardly surprising that contracts have been cancelled, banks closed down accounts and it faces liquidation.

The pity is that we don’t get to hear the other 80% of evidence Agrizzi said he had, according to a weekend report.

Aside from dealing with the past, we need to have measures to ensure corruption is prevented in the future.

At every level of government, from local municipalities to the major metros, we need to deal with the terrible legacy of corruption and its cost to economic growth and development.

We need to ensure when we go to the polls that we demand of our elected representatives that they govern with integrity and so fulfil their commitment to the people and development of South Africa