In Conversation With Zandile Phiri, Acting Secretary General of the United Democratic Movement

corruption remains one of the greatest threats to South Africa’s democracy and economic stability - particularly within local government, where billions of rands are lost each year due to mismanagement, fraud, and outright theft. Municipalities, which should be the backbone of service delivery, have instead become hotbeds of corruption, leading to collapsed infrastructure, failing basic services, and worsening living conditions for ordinary citizens.
The implementation of the Zondo Commission’s findings is not just about recovering stolen funds but about restoring public trust in government. The commission, which exposed state capture and systemic corruption, cost taxpayers billions of rands, and its recommendations must not be ignored. If those implicated are not held accountable and prosecuted, it would signal that crime in high places goes unpunished, further eroding confidence in the rule of law.
The UDM believes that without accountability, South Africa will never fully address its economic and social challenges. The fight against corruption must be relentless, ensuring that public funds are used for the benefit of the people - not stolen by a few at the top