Marchers demand action on corruption and rising living costs

THE SOUTH African Inclusive Economy Indaba, representing civic movements, students, tenants and community organisations, marched to the Premier’s Office in Kimberley, calling for economic emancipation, decisive action against corruption in government and an end to the exploitation of residents through uncontrolled rates, taxes and rentals.

The march on November 17 was supported by Justice4All, Women Waging War Against GBVF, Poverty and Inequality, and the Abahambe National Civic Movement.

The movement called for basic foodstuffs and hygiene products to be exempted from VAT, as well as for a 180-day freeze on the price of fuel, municipal rates and housing rentals.

It further recommended that any official with a criminal record, or who has been implicated by a commission of inquiry, should be removed from office.

“Anyone who has accepted a bribe or misused public funds must be arrested and removed. It is not enough to be suspended. Justice requires accountability. Anyone convicted of corruption or fraud should be disqualified from public office for life. All state employees should disclose their assets on an annual basis,” it stated.

The movement also demanded the establishment of a permanent and independent anti-corruption tribunal in the Northern Cape to prosecute and recover stolen public funds.

The provincial convener of the South African Inclusive Economy Indaba, Vanessa Vuyolethu Maneli, said the peaceful march was successful and noted that the event was organised in a short space of time.

“We will continue to fight the fight until we win,” she added.