By Thapelo Molefe
South Africa’s fight against corruption will get a shot in the arm with the establishment of a permanent, independent Office of Public Integrity and Anti-Corruption.
Speaking at the National Dialogue on Corruption, National Anti-Corruption Advisory Council (NACAC) chairperson Firoz Cachalia described the office as a crucial step in dismantling entrenched networks of systemic corruption that have eroded the country’s democratic institutions.
“Systemic corruption is a hidden cancer that distorts democratic processes, turning institutions from serving the public good to serving personal gain,” he said on Tuesday.
“The OPI will be strategically placed to investigate these hidden networks and restore integrity to public governance.”
The council’s proposal for the OPI forms part of a broader framework developed during its first term. This period saw the council engaging extensively with stakeholders, including civil society, law enforcement agencies and government departments.
The NACAC also visited countries like Kenya, Hong Kong and the Balkan states to draw lessons from successful anti-corruption initiatives.
Outlining the council’s recommendations, Cachalia said: “The OPI will integrate with the existing law enforcement architecture, taking over the powers and functions of the Special Investigating Unit during a transitional phase. This will allow it to be operational immediately, ensuring continuity while expanding its mandate and resources.”
He praised the SIU’s contribution to the anti-corruption fight, but highlighted the need for an institution with broader powers to tackle systemic corruption effectively.
“The SIU has played a critical role in addressing corruption through its investigations and civil recovery processes. However, the complexity of systemic corruption demands an entity with a permanent constitutional mandate and a wider range of tools at its disposal,” he explained.
The OPI’s mandate encompasses a range of critical functions aimed at combating systemic corruption. It will investigate corruption embedded in hidden networks that distort democratic processes and collaborate closely with the National Prosecuting Authority (NPA) and the police for prosecutor-led investigations.
Additionally, the OPI will exercise civil recovery powers, including asset forfeiture in partnership with the NPA’s Asset Forfeiture Unit.
To ensure transparency and accountability, the office will convene public hearings, and gathering evidence during these proceedings. Moreover, it will play a pivotal role in monitoring and evaluating the implementation of the National Anti-Corruption Strategy (NACS).
Cachalia emphasised the importance of independence for the OPI.
“This institution must be insulated from political interference. Its head and staff must have the security of tenure, and its funding must be protected to ensure its autonomy.”
Rather than centralising anti-corruption efforts in a single entity, NACAC recommended retaining SA’s multi-agency approach.
“Collaboration is key, but so is clarity of roles,” Cachalia explained. “We must strengthen coordination mechanisms to resolve conflicts and avoid duplication of efforts among institutions.”
In a country where whistleblowers face severe risks, the NACAC is prioritising reforms to protect and empower them.
“We cannot combat corruption effectively without safeguarding those who come forward to expose wrongdoing,” Cachalia noted.
He highlighted interim measures already in place and the need for next generation whistleblower legislation.
NACAC’s proposals draw heavily on insights from its international visits. In Hong Kong, for instance, the Independent Commission Against Corruption has achieved remarkable success through its broad powers, independence, and focus on public education.
Similarly, Kenya’s experience underscored the importance of robust institutional frameworks and community engagement.
“The fight against corruption is not just a technical challenge but a societal one,” Cachalia said. “The OPI must educate and mobilise the public, gathering and analysing data to support evidence-based policymaking.
He said the council’s work aligned closely with President Cyril Ramaphosa’s vision, as articulated in his 2021 State of the Nation Address.
The president emphasised the need for an independent anti-corruption body to implement the NACS and prevent a recurrence of state capture.
“The council was established to deepen our efforts to rid society and the administration of corruption, improve investor confidence and secure higher levels of public trust,” the president said at the time.
As the dialogue continues, Cachalia urged stakeholders to seize the moment.
“South Africa stands at a crossroads. The work we do now will define our nation’s legacy in the fight against corruption. Let us act with courage and determination,” he said.
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