Corruption arrests, prosecutions signal new day in SA — Errol Naidoo

By Errol Naidoo, Family Policy Institute

The long-awaited arrests and prosecutions of public officials implicated in corruption appears to be gathering momentum. Several senior ANC officials were arrested for fraud and corruption this past week and some appeared in court for bail hearings. The arrests of former Free State officials implicated in the R255-million asbestos audit scam dominated the headlines.

Thankfully, the Asset Forfeiture Unit attached R300-million in assets belonging to kingpin, Edwin Sodi. Media analysts agree the noose is tightening around ANC Secretary General, Ace Magashule’s neck. Most of the corruption, fraud and theft committed in the Free State – including the appalling Vrede Dairy Farm atrocity – transpired on the former Free State premier’s watch.

The recent arrests and prosecutions of public officials implicated in corruption is evidence South Africa is turning the corner. On September 26, thousands of believers united in repentance and prayer for the nation. There were many other prayer initiatives prior to and leading up to this national prayer gathering. God hears the prayers of His people and divinely intervenes on our behalf.

The weekend of repentance and prayer was followed by a rare earthquake off the coast of Cape Town that rattled windows. God is exposing what was done in the dark. More evidence of corruption perpetrated by ANC officials is being revealed at the Zondo Commission. Apparently, former president, Jacob Zuma wants Justice Zondo to recuse himself to avoid testifying.

Literally hundreds of former and current public officials are implicated in corruption totalling hundreds of billions of rands. The Zuma/Gupta criminal collaboration alone siphoned off several hundred billion from the treasury. The ANC government aided the Gupta crime family’s escape from South Africa. However, proceedings are underway to recover the stolen Gupta billions.

The strongest indicator the Ramaphosa administration is serious about combating and eradicating state corruption, are the arrests and prosecutions of corrupt government officials. The fact that this is happening including the continuing revelations at the Zondo Commission, will increase international investor confidence. The NPA must maintain this momentum so justice and accountability can boost South Africa’s recovery.

South Africa’s borders were opened on October 1 providing a much-needed boost to the travel, hospitality and tourism sector. Apparently, 71 aircraft departed and landed at OR Tambo Airport on day one. This bodes well for South Africa’s economic recovery. Cape Town in particular is a major tourist attraction. The summer months and favourable exchange rates will boost coffers.

The Department of Health indicated South Africa has surpassed the Covid-19 surge threat. Infections and related deaths continue to decline. Business confidence is growing as most people are back at work and actively engaged in the economy. Another boost to the ailing economy is the approaching Christmas holiday season. Most retailers expect a bumper festive season which will help business rebound more robustly.

2020 was undoubtedly a tough year. However, when I reflect on the past six months, I am more aware of God’s presence, wisdom and guidance each day. What I have learned during this challenging year is that God’s faithfulness becomes more apparent in times of chaos, turmoil and uncertainty. This year prioritised what’s truly essential – Faith, Family and Freedom.

I am deeply grateful to the believers who faithfully intercede for the nation. Prayer is the most consequential activity you and I can engage in. God answers prayer. When we faithfully pray for our marriages, families, Churches and nation, we co-labour with the Lord to fulfil His will in the earth.

I am convinced we are witnessing the answers to our prayers. God is doing a new thing in South Africa. Believers must continue in humility, repentance and prayer to experience South Africa’s restoration.

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