South African President Cyril Ramaphosa on Monday appointed a nine-member National Anti-Corruption Advisory Council (NACAC) to advise the government on the fight against corruption, reported The CGTN Africa.
The work of the National Anti-Corruption Advisory Council (NACAC) will be to advise the government on preventative measures, institutional capabilities and resources required to prevent a recurrence of state capture and to eradicate fraud and corruption in the country.
Furthermore, the council will also offer advice on matters related to government’s response to the recommendations of the Judicial Commission of Inquiry into Allegations of State Capture.
“Our ultimate aim is to build strong and resilient institutions that can end corruption and withstand any future attempts at state capture,” South African President Ramaphosa said.
The NACAC will be headed by Professor Firoz Cachalia. The other members of the council, who will serve a three-year term from September 1, include Inkosikazi Nomandla Dorothy Mhlauli, who will act as deputy chairwoman, Kavisha Pillay, David Lewis, Nkosana Dolopi, Barbara Schreiner, Nokuzola Gloria Khumalo, Sekoetlane Phamodi, and Thandeka Gqubule-Mbeki.
South Africa has been plagued by corruption for years despite promises by successive governments to eliminate it.
Ramaphosa noted that various efforts by his administration had yielded fruits and given hope that the country can overcome corruption.
He noted that approximately R659 million (about 5.49 million U.S. dollars) was restored to the state through preservation and recovery of the proceeds of crime in the last financial year, while around R613 million (about 5.11 million U.S. dollars) were frozen in suspected criminal proceeds.
“As we continue to build on these successes, we are confident that even if it takes time, those who stole and looted resources meant for the people will face the consequences of their actions,” the South African president said.
Ramaphosa will present government’s response to the probe’s recommendations, which stem from the period of former President Jacob Zuma’s tenure, to lawmakers by Oct. 22.
