SA can do with more of the likes of Bloem

DENNIS Bloem’s testimony at the Zondo inquiry was breathtaking in its clarity, stupendous in its revelations and earth-shattering in its ominous implications.

Bloem is an embodiment of transparency and accountability. He exhibits disciplined character, integrity and honesty. The magnitude of the revelations is bound to cause a seismic shift in our outlook for the future trajectory of our embattled nation.

There is dishonesty in all of us. For politicians – appointed ones and those in the business fraternity – the opportunity for larceny increases with the ease in which it can be perpetrated and the length in office. The lure of ill-gotten cash has propelled our politics into a new dimension, tossing aside ethics and morality. A new breed of political carnivores have emasculated our democracy.

Our divisive, polarising and fractured politics is pushing us to the brink. Greed and impunity have ravaged our moral, political and economic fabric. The malignant culture of shameless graft and political impunity has devoured our nation.

We must reinstate honour and integrity and respect for the rule of law. The piercing moral clarity, which was the hallmark of Madiba’s presidency, is sorely missed.

FAROUK ARAIE Actonville, Johannesburg