A weak state lets graft thrive, says minister Buthelezi

By Charmaine Ndlela

Corruption takes root where government is weak and accountability is absent, Public Service and Administration Minister Inkosi Mzamo Buthelezi said on Tuesday.

He was speaking at a media briefing in Pretoria to outline reforms aimed at strengthening integrity, accountability and ethical governance across the public sector, and as a prelude to International Anti-Corruption Day on 9 December.

Buthelezi said the day was more than symbolic. Rather, it was a renewal of South Africa’s resolve to confront wrongdoing in the public sector.

“The fight against corruption is never a short-term campaign but a long-term national commitment that demands consistency, vigilance and collective ownership,” Buthelezi said.

Buthelezi was accompanied by the department’s deputy minister, Pinky Kekana.

He used his address to highlight South Africa’s successful hosting of the G20 Leaders’ Summit.  

“G20 positioned our nation as a credible leader on governance and institutional reforms,” he said.

“Our critical