ActionSA in the Northern Cape has criticised Premier Zamani Saul’s “lack of decisive action” to tackle corruption that is casting a shadow over local government, saying that failure to act on it revealed the stark contrast between the government’s anti-corruption rhetoric and its actual implementation.
ActionSA in the Northern Cape has criticised Premier Zamani Saul’s “lack of decisive action” to tackle corruption that is casting a shadow over local government, saying that failure to act on it revealed the stark contrast between the government’s anti-corruption rhetoric and its actual implementation.
This is as the party has called for an immediate and impartial investigation into the allegations against Johnny MacKay, the head of the Department of Roads and Public Works in the Northern Cape.
In a statement, ActionSA’s Andrew Louw said the precautionary suspension of the chief financial officer (CFO) at the Northern Cape Department of Roads and Public Works, Bradley Slingers, raised concerns over the lack of transparency and accountability in the Province.
Slingers was suspended after allegations of corruption were made against him. An investigation is under way.
Louw applauded the efforts by MacKay to take action against Slingers, however, he also raised serious concerns about MacKay’s “integrity” in handling the matter, given the corruption allegations he himself is facing.
“We question the integrity of Mackay, who himself faces allegations of corruption. ActionSA welcomes this gesture of accountability while simultaneously raising concerns about MacKay’s own ethical standing amid the ongoing investigation,” Louw said.
He called on the MEC for Roads and Public Works to officially request the premier to suspend MacKay, pending the outcome of the corruption investigation.
He added that his concern was rooted in the provincial government’s inconsistent response to corruption allegations involving MacKay.
This is despite numerous calls for action from Saul to hold corrupt officials responsible for their actions.
Louw said the people of the Northern Cape deserved a transparent and accountable government led by individuals who prioritise public interests over personal and political motives.
“The sluggish response to corruption within government departments erodes public trust and hampers the Province’s progress,” he said.
Furthermore, he called on Saul to demonstrate strong leadership, address the concerns of the people, and decisively combat corruption within the Northern Cape administration.
Louw vowed to picket outside Saul’s office should he fail to respond to the matter within 48 hours.
