THE GREAT corruption DEBATE

CASHING IN ON GRAFT

Public outrage over the procurement of essential personal protective equipment (PPE) during the Covid-19 crisis has escalated following revelations that politically connected individuals and companies have benefited from national and provincial government tenders.

The ANC discussed the issue at its recent national executive council meeting, decided not to appoint a former president to investigate allegations, and issued it’s “hang its head in shame” statement instead – provoking even further anger.

Now the widely respected Ahmed Kathrada , Nelson Mandela, and Desmond and Leah Tutu foundations have joined the SA Council of Churches and Council for the Advancement of the SA Constitution in condemning the corruption publicly.

At stake is South Africa’s ability to slow the infection rate and save lives amid the devastating pandemic – and the credibility of an ANC-led government that appears incapable of stopping corruption.

The clouds of doubt gathered just after national funds were allocated to PPE in March. But, by last month, people were so fed up that South Africans unleashed a storm of fury on social media.

Since March 26, more than 93 000 social media