Unisa online - Say 'no' to corruption

From left: Dr Agostinho Zacarias, Prof Louis Molamu, Mr Richard Baloyi & Dr Ralph Mgijima at the 2010 International Anti-Corruption Day

Corruption is a global concern and a crime that affects us all. There is no country or sector that is immune as it affects every facet of life: it hinders efforts to achieve developmental targets, it undermines democracy and the rule of law, it leads to human rights violations, distorts markets, erodes quality of life, and allows organised crime, terrorism and other threats to human security to flourish.

In light of this, a roundtable event for the 2010 International Anti-Corruption Day was held in the Senate Hall on 9 December 2010. Recognised annually, this day is regarded as a valuable opportunity to promote and reflect on initiatives undertaken to combat corruption on a global, regional and national level.

It was a well-attended event and pertinent issues were raised by Dr Ralph Mgijima (Chairperson: Public Service Commission), Dr Agostinho Zacarias (Resident Representative: UNDP South Africa/Resident Coordinator: UN System in South Africa) and Dr Elisabeth Bayer (Acting Regional Representative: UNODC Southern Africa).

Impressed with the turnout, Dr Bayer said the audience presence “is proof that you are indeed saying ‘no’ to corruption. Fighting corruption is a critical tool for creating social cohesion, good governance, a prosperous business climate and healthy economic development.”

A roundtable discussion followed with perspectives from government, business and civil society. Mr Richard Baloyi, Minister of Public Service and Administration, shared government’s perspective on corruption. He said “at the level of parliament we have seen a number of laws passed with tools that can be used in the fight against corruption – these laws are meant to be interpreted and applied without any excuse.”

On this important day in society, the call is for each and every person to do their part to foster ethical practices, safeguard trust and ensure there is no diversion of resources needed for development and peace.