Hawks must swoop in where Zuma will not
STATE Capture, just like white monopoly capital, has become a buzzword. Concerned citizens understand the ramifications of state capture and its negative implications for our fragile economy, which is estimated to grow at just 0.6% in the current financial year.
This is further compounded by our downgraded status, coupled with inflation, which is impacting all due to higher commodity prices.
The Hawks should act on the allegations of state capture, and commence with investigations immediately. As an independent Chapter 9 institution, they have an obligation to give answers to the electorate on how their taxes are being spent or mismanaged, and the amount being siphoned out due to unsavoury practices and corruption.
South Africa cannot rely on President Jacob Zuma to establish a commission of enquiry into state capture as he is highly conflicted.
The call for an independent commission to be appointed is unlikely to be heeded, since this duty is the task of the president.
The constitution needs to be changed so that even the number one citizen can be held accountable for corruption and bringing the country into disrepute.
If the constitution gives tacit protection to elected public servants, then it’s a slip- pery slope we are manoeuvring on.
Sihle Zikalala has stated that Zuma is not a Gupta “lackey”, meaning the family may have done things in the president’s name, but without his knowledge and approval.
However, the facts tell a different story. Ministers were ordered by the president to meet the Guptas.
Ministers were informed of impending cabinet changes by the family, before the president made the announcements. Therefore the president cannot be exonerated from his role in this saga.
He cannot escape culpability as he is an active enabler of state capture. It’s common knowledge that the Guptas could not have acted alone.
The country needs answers. Law enforcement agencies, led by Police Minister Fikile Mbalula, should be ordered to begin with investigations rather than wait for Zuma to appoint a commission of enquiry.
All those implicated in the e-mail saga should come clean by explaining their relationship with the Guptas.
Our democracy is not up for grabs by agents of state capture. Our country has suffered immensely and decisive action is required immediately. VIJAY SURUJPAL
Phoenix