SA’s laws weakened by those meant to uphold them: Fikeni

Professor Somadoda Fikeni, Chairperson of the Public Service Commission (PSC), emphasized during a panel discussion at the South African Association of Public Administration and Management's annual conference in Durban that while South Africa has established robust laws, policies, and institutions, it has neglected to invest sufficiently in the human resources necessary to effectively implement them. Fikeni contended that these weaknesses are deliberately perpetuated by those tasked with maintaining the system.

After conducting an in-depth analysis of the situation over a five-year period, Fikeni concluded that this recurring issue is not a mere coincidence but rather a calculated design. He attributed this to a political economy of inefficiency, where failure is actually a strategic outcome for those who stand to gain from it. Consequently, this has contributed to South Africa becoming the most unequal society in recent history, as the political elite, business elite, and civil society elite have agreed upon a system that transforms public service into self-service.

The discussions also delved into the challenges faced by public servants who have the courage to report corruption. One delegate pointed out that despite the presence of administrative will, public servants who expose corruption have faced severe consequences, even to the point of death. The question then arises: what is the cost of maintaining such will, and what mechanisms are in place to protect those who take a stand against corruption?

The panel emphasized the need for institutions that can withstand individual interests, face accountability for wrongdoing, and safeguard those who take action against corruption.