Necessary evils to fight graft

WE ARE worried about the Covid-19 corruption scandals and wondering how they could have flourished under our watch.

This is proving to challenging to understand, especially if the reports are accurate that the Special Investigating Unit also did not follow due processes, because it wanted to save the entity costs when it was awarded the department PPE tender. This is the same entity required to investigate others that did wrong.

We need to reflect and self-correct, as individuals. This is the time when we need to start questioning our unethical behaviour and work on correcting it.

I remember an interview by former minister Bathabile Dlamini where she talked about the smolanyana skeletons. Does that mean we are not going to act because of the hidden skeletons?

The officials need to understand that their unethical behaviour has an impact on delaying government processes. The delay is forced by a new layer of governance that must be put in place to limit corruption and fraud.

The delay is not what we need if we are genuinely looking for an efficient government. However, considering the impact of corruption, it is a necessary step.

Adding an additional layer will, therefore, mean that it will take an extended period for the genuine suppliers to be paid for their services. The publishing of the winners of contracts is an essential element to stop the abuse.

It is vital to note the increase in the cost of doing business with the government, but that is what is required to gain credibility again. For instance, the process has unintended consequences and will expose the government to litigation. That’s why a new kind of business leader in our government departments is needed. We need to ensure that before awarding any business contract, the government has followed due processes and in that way, limits its exposure to litigation.

The supply chain is the most significant risk, and thus we need to put the necessary controls there. This forces the government to take the required steps in ensuring that good governance is practised.

NYANISO QWESHA | Cape Town