Lack of action on corrupt officials troubling

I want to reflect on addresses by our Eastern Cape provincial leaders, specifically the state of the province address by premier Oscar Mabuyane and the budget speech by MEC Mlungisi Mvoko.

Both addresses were connected to the needs of our people and spoke directly to the masses of poor Eastern Cape people.

Their leadership capabilities and connection to the people reflected positively on the days and those ANC delegates who had voted for them in the 2017 provincial elective conference were not disappointed.

But what worries me was again a lack of decisiveness on corruption and the subject of lifestyle audits — though Mvoko was clear on dealing with officials giving tenders to companies and then receiving kickbacks, while the premier was clear on the non-payment of SMMEs.

It is wrong and unacceptable to see our officials demanding kickbacks in order to award tenders.

Our tendering system needs to be centralised under Treasury in the office of MEC Mvoko, with transactions reported straight to the premier and the national finance department.

We cannot embrace and enjoy corruption while our people are suffering.

I thank Mabuyane and Mvoko for showing signs of changing our people’s lives.

We will monitor their promises and expose lies where those exist.

So far I am joining those who are pleased as it looks like our province is indeed moving towards the right direction [and honouring] fallen heroes and heroines such as Oliver Tambo, Chris Hani, Winnie Madikizela-Mandela, Albertina Sisulu, Harry Fazzie, Alcott Gwentshe, Nelson Mandela, Raymond Mhlaba and Vuyisile Mini.

Keep up the good work, Mr Premier, and your collective executive committee.

Viwe Sidali, ANC Mzwanele Fazzie branch