for Local Government
23 October 2006
Gallagher Estate was abuzz exactly at midday today as over 700 guests blew
whistles signalling the launch of the Anti-Corruption Strategy by the
Department of Provincial and Local Government (dplg). Minister Sydney Mufamadi
led the enthusiastic representatives of municipalities, provincial governments
and partners of the department in blowing the whistles against corruption and
fraud in local government.
He ushered in the strategy by calling on municipal officials to use it as a
tool to empower communities and provide them with a better life. The launch of
the strategy, themed: 'Government and communities in partnership to prevent
corruption,' is an effort to promote a culture of good and ethical governance
that is intolerant to corrupt and fraudulent behaviours in the local government
sector.
This is in recognition that corruption and unethical conduct undermine the
integrity, public confidence and effective service delivery in the system of
local government. The strategy is mainly being influenced by the lessons
learned over the past two years, working with the Project Consolidate
municipalities in selected provinces and available intelligence provided by
government agencies. The Prevention and Combating of Corrupt Activities Act,
2004, The Municipal Systems Act, 2000 and other legislations applicable to
local government also formed the basis for developing the Local Government
Anti-Corruption Strategy.
The launch marks the beginning of the Anti-Corruption campaign in local
government and as part of the campaign, provinces will launch the strategy for
their respective municipalities. The Imbizo Focus Week starting on Thursday, 26
October 2006, will also be used as a conduit to popularise and socialise the
strategy in our communities.
The speakers at the launch included the Deputy Chairperson of South African
Local Government Association (SALGA), Councillor Hazel Jenkins. She urged
officials and councillors to make the strategy a success by implementing it and
adhering to its objectives. "Make sure your heart and your head agree on the
honest choice however difficult it may be," concluded Jenkins.
For more information please contact:
Luzuko Koti
Departmental Spokesperson
Tel: (012) 334 0699
Cell: 083 391 0073
Issued by: Department of Provincial and Local Government
23 October 2006
