Whistleblower says she lost her livelihood after exposing alleged corruption
Former City of Johannesburg CFO Sarika Lakraj-Naidoo says reporting alleged corruption at the City of Johannesburg cost her her job, financial security and peace of mind.
Whistleblower Sarika Lakraj-Naidoo says she lost her livelihood and sense of security after exposing alleged corruption at the City of Johannesburg. The 56-year-old former chief financial officer lost her job in June 2023 after facing disciplinary proceedings, which she claims were unjustified. She alleges she was harassed, bullied, and labelled a racist despite winning compensation of 10 months' remuneration in arbitration.
Lakraj-Naidoo has been forced to sell her belongings, including her wedding rings, and is now seeking employment, claiming that no organization is willing to hire her. She also revealed she was once shot at and had to abandon her vehicle, causing her immense trauma. Lakraj-Naidoo says that despite her vindication by the arbitration process, she still faces challenges in finding work and feels unsupported by society.
Activists and experts emphasize that whistleblowers in South Africa often face severe consequences for speaking out against corruption, highlighting the urgent need for legislative reforms to protect them.
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