Urgent Call for Anti-Corruption Measures in SONA 2025 Expected from President Ramaphosa

The Organisation Undoing Tax Abuse (OUTA) is setting the stage for President Cyril Ramaphosa's State of the Nation Address (SONA) 2025, with clear expectations for concrete strategies to combat organized crime and corruption in South Africa. Amid various global and local distractions, OUTA emphasizes the urgent necessity for President Ramaphosa to prioritize the nation's internal crises, notably corruption, in this year's address.

Corruption has been a persistent issue in South Africa, escalating into a crisis that, according to OUTA, has not been addressed with the seriousness it demands. Often dismissed with hollow promises and ineffective plans, the fight against corruption requires a resilient, action-oriented approach with specific deadlines and sufficient budget allocations. OUTA urges the President to provide a comprehensive strategy that will hold the large cabinet responsible for significant and tangible changes, fostering accountability and transparency in government operations.

In addition, the organization is advocating for the removal of ministers such as Thembi Simelane, who are viewed as impediments to a corruption-free environment. OUTA stresses the importance of a skilled and independent law enforcement arm capable of combating complex criminal enterprises effectively. This includes outfitting agencies like SARS, SIU, Hawks, NPA, and the Public Protector's office with contemporary technology and substantial expertise.

The judicial system also warrants a critical overhaul, with special anti-corruption courts to be instituted for dealing with high-profile crime syndicates and money laundering cases. OUTA criticizes the continuous delays in court proceedings which hinder the process of justice, thus allowing corruption and organized crime to thrive.

Concerns extend into municipalities and state-owned entities where corruption has been rampant. Recommendations from the State Capture Commission remain largely unimplemented, causing frustration and contributing to the degradation of trust in governmental commitments. President Ramaphosa's establishment of the National Anti-Corruption Agency and the proposed Public Procurement Anti-Corruption Agency have been disappointingly slow to materialize.

As the nation looks forward to SONA 2025, expectations are heightened for substantial commitments and fiscal policies in the upcoming budget announcement dedicated to eradicating corruption. OUTA, along with the general public, remains vigilant and ready to hold the government accountable for turning promises into effective actions that combat corruption and uplift millions from poverty.