By Lesedi Sibiya-Diplomatic Insider 

South African and African National Congress (ANC) President Cyril Ramaphosa has told the public that the recent findings made by the Special Investigating Unit (SIU) will be acted upon by the government. Ramaphosa had made statements to the media during the National Executive Committee and ANC meeting which was held at the Birchwood hotel in Boksburg. 

“Corruption corrodes competitiveness. We therefore insist on consequence management, lifestyle audits and the government of integrity standards across the public sector” said Ramaphosa during his media address. 

The meeting was held over the span of three days starting from Saturday 4th of October to Monday 6th of October which aimed at discussing how the party can reform their lack of public trust due to many years of corruption, as well as finding resolutions in strengthening the economy and overall preparations for the upcoming 2026 municipal elections.

 “Government reform is not only by compliance; it is also about restoring public confidence and trust, and enabling the state to lead investment and industrialisation effectively.” added Ramaphosa in his media briefing. Ramaphosa emphasised on the significance of the SIU and has expressed how effective it is in fighting against corruption.

 “The SIU reports that are coming through are demonstrating that we are serious about fighting corruption-and they will be acted on,” said Ramaphosa. 

These statements made by Ramaphosa come after the SIU had recently uncovered various syndicates looting R2 billion from Tembisa Hospital. The murder of Babita Deokaran in 2021, had catalysed the investigation progress as she had been the one to blow the whistle on corruption going on around the hospital. 

“Transformation is not an event. It is a process of building capacity, building confidence, but also enhancing our sovereignty as a country. Through ethical leadership and collective effort, the developmental state will secure prosperity and justice for all,” said Ramaphosa.

 He also briefed the media that some of the other outcomes that are a priority for the ANC will be economic reform and emphasising that implementation of some of the plans are key.

 “Our task now is to ensure effective and immediate implementation. Through the Government of National Unity, provincial and local government, and all our structures, we will undertake key interventions to reignite growth and create jobs.” said Ramaphosa.