Neelam Rahim | neelam@radioislam.co.za
3-minute read | 16 October 2025 | 14:40 CAT

📸 Acting Police Minister Firoz Kachalia, backed by the PSA, calls for sweeping investigations into systemic corruption across South Africa’s public institutions.

The Public Servants Association (PSA) has called for sweeping and urgent investigations into corruption across all public hospitals and government institutions, following shocking revelations surrounding looting at Tembisa Hospital.

Speaking to Radio Islam International, PSA spokesperson Madimetja Mautla described the situation as “a systemic national crisis” that extends far beyond one institution. “It is commendable that the Acting Minister has called for investigations across all government institutions,” said Mautla. “This corruption has taken a lot of money from our people when our country is grappling with unemployment and poverty. The poorest of the poor are suffering on the ground.”

The call follows comments by Acting Police Minister Firoz Kachalia, who noted that Tembisa Hospital “may not be the only institution with immense corruption allegations.” The PSA believes this pattern of corruption demands urgent forensic scrutiny, particularly within the Government Employees’ Pension Fund. Mautla revealed that whistleblowers have previously flagged concerns over “employees forced to process illegitimate tenders worth billions,” urging that “those fingered for malfeasance must be held accountable.”

Mautla criticised the government’s inaction despite repeated pledges to curb corruption, describing the current stance as “lackadaisical.” he added, “All they do is talk, no action. Only a handful of people are found guilty while the majority of perpetrators are out there enjoying posh lifestyles, while our people are suffering.”

Referencing the ongoing Madlanga Commission, Mautla emphasised that corruption is “deeply rooted in our society,” damaging South Africa’s global image and scaring off potential investors. “We are investing so much money fighting corruption instead of uplifting communities and ensuring a better life for all, something promised over 30 years ago,” he lamented.

As South Africa heads towards the upcoming municipal and national elections, Mautla urged citizens to make integrity and accountability a voting priority. “Our people are tired of corruption,” he said. “We need leaders who are ethical and who put the needs of society first, instead of pursuing their narrow selfish interests.”

The PSA’s stance echoes Minister Kachalia’s warning that systemic corruption continues to corrode the state from within, a warning that may prove pivotal as the nation faces yet another test of its moral and political resolve.

Listen to the full interview on The Daily Round-Up with Moulana Junaid Kharsany and Madimetja Mautla.