SACCI CONCERNED OVER HIGH CORRUPTION LEVELS

The South African Chamber of Commerce and Industry (SACCI) is highly concerned about the high level of corruption according to the latest Global Corruption Barometer from Transparency International (see here). The survey finds that between 40% and 50% of South Africans have paid a bribe over the past year. This puts South Africa at roughly twice the global average of around 25%. Bribery and corruption erodes the very foundation of society and dampens economic growth and job creation.

Bribery has at its root a manifestation of weak institutions: service delivery failure, incompetent officials and poor public service accountability incentivize private persons to bribe officials. Roadside bribery would for example not be an issue if motorists where sure of proper treatment by authorities regardless of their innocence or guilt and if officials knew they would be held accountable for their actions.

Bribery is not only an additional cost to the economy, but also an additional tax on the private sector and the most vulnerable members of society are often the most exposed. The South African business community has a significant interest in eliminating bribery in all its forms because it is wasteful, distorts the market and represents a loss of economic value to society.

SACCI calls on all stakeholders to crack down on corruption on every level for the sake of social cohesion and economic growth. Legitimate and existing institutions need to be strengthened to resist corrupt practices. 

Statement issued today the CEO of SACCI, Mr. Neren Rau, July 10 2013

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