ANC president Cyril Ramaphosa says there has been progress in tackling corruption, but he acknowledges it remains a major problem in South Africa. Ramaphosa made the remarks on Saturday while delivering closing comments at the party’s 14th provincial conference at Mbombela Stadium.
“We’re also seeing some progress in fighting corruption. Yes, corruption is still a major problem in our country,” he said. He added that efforts have been established to root out corruption, citing the Madlanga Commission and the ad hoc committee as examples.
Progress in Tackling Corruption
According to Ramaphosa, these efforts would help resolve issues within the police service. “We are going to make sure that we have a police service and a security cluster that is fit for purpose and that our people can trust,” he told ANC members. The Madlanga Commission and the ad hoc committee were established shortly after KwaZulu-Natal provincial police commissioner Lieutenant General Nhlanhla Mkhwanazi’s explosive media briefing on July 6 2025.
Mkhwanazi alleged corruption, the shielding of criminal networks and political interference in the justice system. He implicated several senior officials, including suspended Police Minister Senzo Mchunu, who is currently on special leave, and suspended deputy national commissioner for crime detection Lieutenant General Shadrack Sibiya.
Addressing Water Shortages
Ramaphosa also told delegates there had been progress in addressing water shortages, although many residents across provinces continue to experience disruptions. “We are making progress to address the water challenges in our country, as well as energy and innovation within the state,” he said. For more information on the current state of water management in South Africa, visit the Department of Water and Sanitation website.
Some of the key challenges in tackling corruption include:
- Lack of transparency and accountability
- Inadequate resources and funding
- Political interference in law enforcement
Ramaphosa urged ANC members to take responsibility in combating corruption within party structures. “We must, comrades, make all efforts to rid our structures of corruption,” he said.
