Sameera Casmod | sameerac@radioislam.co.za
25 September 2024 | 12:40 p.m. SAST
2-minute read

Dennis Bloem, former ANC and COPE leader and a once-vocal critic of ex-president Jacob Zuma, has now directed his criticism toward the current administration under President Cyril Ramaphosa. As the spokesperson for the Activists and Citizens Forum social movement, Bloem has called out what he believes to be an increase in corruption under Ramaphosa’s leadership.

Speaking on Radio Islam International, Bloem declared, “I am very vocal against corruption. There is no consequences of corruption in this country.”

His assessment is that Ramaphosa is not doing enough to address the nation’s ongoing issues with corruption.

Bloem, who resigned from COPE on 25 August 2023, explained his current role with the Activists and Citizens Forum, a movement of individuals who have long been active in South Africa’s political landscape.

“We have decided that we cannot sit back and look how our country is going down the drain,” he stated.

The former leader explained that the movement is national, encompassing regions beyond Gauteng and the Free State, highlighting its reach and dedication to being active citizens against corruption.

Bloem cited recent examples of mismanagement, specifically pointing to corruption in the Gauteng legislature and the looting of public funds.

“It’s billions now that is getting missing from municipalities,” Bloem said, referencing the latest findings from the Auditor General.

He expressed frustration at the lack of accountability, demanding that those responsible be prosecuted and imprisoned.

“We want to see action. We want to see people in orange uniforms for this looting of taxpayers’ money,” Bloem insisted, maintaining his stance that his fight against corruption is principled and non-partisan. “When I was against Zuma, I will also be against President Ramaphosa.”

Bloem’s latest comments add to the growing discontent within the country, where the public has grown weary of the perceived inaction against corruption. His remarks underscore the continuing debate over whether the current government is doing enough to tackle corruption or if, as Bloem suggests, the situation has worsened.

The Activists and Citizens Forum, led by veterans of South Africa’s political struggle, aims to mobilise citizens to demand accountability from the government.

Listen to the full interview on Sabaahul Muslim with Moulana Sulaimaan Ravat.