The Dr Ruth Segomotsi Mompati District Municipality recently hosted a workshop on anti-corruption to promote ethics among its councillors and officials at Rejabotlhe Guest House.
The workshop was attended by councillors from five local municipalities of the district, along with officials from the offices of the Speakers, Representatives from the Office of the Premier, Provincial Local Government & Traditional Affairs, National COGTA, and relevant law enforcement agencies.
Dr RSM District Municipality Speaker, Cllr Kgalalelo Sereko, emphasised the necessity for comprehensive knowledge and understanding of corruption within municipalities and government departments.
“Corruption often begins within our homes and workplaces, manifesting in stolen goods seen on our streets, yet met with silence. The communities must be educated about the corruption that occurs within our institutions. As custodians of anti-corruption, the Speakers of the municipalities hold a crucial role, “said Cllr Sereko.
Cllr Lydia Duiker, speaking on behalf of the Executive Mayor of the District Municipality, emphasised the importance of Dr RSM Councillors acquiring a deep understanding of the do's and don'ts of anti-corruption practices.
“It is our responsibility to provide oversight to the administration and promote community ownership by empowering residents with the knowledge to report corrupt activities, “said Cllr Duiker.
Elphus Ndou, representing the Department of Local Government & Traditional Affairs on Corporate Governance, highlighted the importance of building municipal capacity to report corruption. He encouraged municipalities to establish corruption policies if they still need to and stressed the need for collaboration with various stakeholders, including law enforcement agencies, provincial departments, and national entities.
“Implementing effective detection mechanisms is essential in combatting corruption. Furthermore, institutionalising ethical standards within municipalities can play a pivotal role in reducing corruption among councillors and officials, “said Ndou.
