Corruption is a Zuma paradigm not a "Western paradigm"

13 October 2014

The Democratic Alliance has noted, with great concern, reports of President Jacob Zuma's 2009 representations to the National Prosecuting Authority (NPA), in which he negates corruption as a victimless crime, which finds its roots in the Western world (see City Press article). 

I will be writing to the President to demand clarity about this disturbing position he took and whether he agrees with existing legislation. 

President Zuma evidently sees corruption as something that should be swept under the carpet, without repercussions.

With these comments, it is clear that President Zuma speaks with a forked tongue when he commits to tackling corruption, especially in the public sector. 

It is no wonder that the President and ANC Members of Parliament (MPs) show a severe disregard for the role of the Public Protector and her remedial action steps, because, in their warped view, corruption is not a matter that deserves any remedy.

The preamble to the Prevention and Combating of Corruption Act states that "The illicit acquisition of personal wealth can be particularly damaging to democratic institutions, national economies, ethical values and the rule of law."

With this in mind, it is difficult not to conclude that the President condones lawlessness. And his evasion of having his "day in court" for the 783 charges of corruption, fraud, money laundering and racketeering, indicate the he will do anything to ensure that his "license to loot" is not revoked.

Corruption under Jacob Zuma is the cancer that eats away at opportunity and growth.

Furthermore, my Office has written to the Office of the Deputy President to request a meeting with Deputy President Cyril Ramaphosa, in his capacity as Leader of Government Business, to discuss the most concerning matter of the erosion of Executive accountably, among other urgent matters.

Statement issued by Mmusi Maimane MP, DA Parliamentary Leader, October 13 2014

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