Corruption is a very serious problem which is seriously undermining development and progress in many countries in Africa. This problem is highly entrenched and widespread in governments, private sector and public life. Corruption has become a norm and a part of our culture and way of life in which business transactions, deals and government services are influence by corruption. Others have rightfully described the endemic problem of corruption as a cancer that is undermining our democracy, economic growth and the provisioning of basic services. As a result, people generally speak of the size, nature of corruption and not whether corruption exists. Government institutions are the hardest hit and as a result deprive millions of people access to basic services. Where services are available they are poor and completely inadequate.
The South African Policing Union (SAPU) held its inaugural anti corruption symposium over three days at the Protea Hotel, Midrand between the 22nd and 24th of June, 2011. The symposium was attended by trade union organisations from SADC YS countries, civil society organisations in South Africa and National Executive members of the South African Policing Union. The symposium also drew speakers from civil society organisation with specialisation on certain topics as well as academics and activists. Speakers were identified based on their expertise and knowledge of the problem corruption. All participants were had prior knowledge of the subject of corruption and had worked on this area or were working on this topic. Guest speakers brought a lot of experience, knowledge and richness with them and their different approaches to the topic enriched the symposium.
We, the trade union organisations within the SADC-YS countries acknowledge that corruption in the SADC countries is a serious problem which is seriously undermining development, service delivery and the integrity of public institutions.
We undertake to uphold and promote the values which promote fundamental ethical principles, good governance, transparency and accountability in our countries;
We commit to adopt the necessary anti-corruption measures and practices;
We commit to work towards eradicating corruption in the public service sector institution in our countries,
We commit to work together will all other progressive forces, state and non state actors who are committed to eradicating this scourge;
Human rights are vecy important in human life, development and democracy in all societies and communities. They are the signposts to democracy which are recognised and protected by society and no government or leadership should compromise or attempt to abolish them. Human rights are both rights which must not morally and legally be tampered with by any person, such as the right to live and survive.
