The Minister of Cooperative Governance and Traditional Affairs (COGTA), Ms Thembi Nkadimeng, has today launched the Code for Ethical Leadership in Local Government. This Code is one of the indications of COGTA’s commitment to fostering a just, inclusive, and transformed society through effective and efficient functioning municipalities.
Ethical leadership, particularly in local government, stands as a cornerstone in achieving this aspiration, given its role in upholding human rights and ensuring equitable service delivery.
While celebrating the progress made in the 30 years of democracy, Minister Nkadimeng emphasized the persistent deep-rooted inequalities that continue to afflict communities. She rallied all stakeholders and leaders in the local government sector to join forces in the ongoing journey towards a truly just society. We should be cognisant that the journey demands a collective effort to prioritize the needs of the vulnerable and address systemic injustices.
The launch of the Code builds upon the foundation laid by the Local Government Ethical Leadership Initiative (LGELI) – a partnership between The Ethics Institute (TEI), the Department for Cooperative Governance (DCoG), the South African Local Government Association (SALGA), and the Moral Regeneration Movement (MRM) – and the Local Government Anti-Corruption Forum (LGACF), established in 2022.
The collaboration by the State and non-State actors reaffirms that collaboration and shared responsibilities are key to addressing challenges faced by local government. Through this partnership, government is not only taking a stand against unethical conduct and corruption but also promoting a collaborative approach to governance that is essential for sustainable development.
At its core, the Code serves as a guiding framework for local government leaders to navigate complex ethical issues that significantly impact governance within municipalities. Grounded in rigorous research, the Code outlines seven fundamental ethical principles that should be upheld by individuals occupying leadership roles within municipalities. This includes political figures such as councillors and traditional leaders, as well as administrative personnel including municipal managers and other officials.
Minister Nkadimeng urges all stakeholders to fully embrace the principles outlined in the Code for Ethical Leadership as working together will to foster a culture of integrity, accountability, and transparency within local government, thereby advancing the collective goal of a just and inclusive society.
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Mr. Legadima Leso
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Mr. Tsekiso Machike
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