Assessment of the Shortcomings on Fight Against Corruption

Abstract

The purpose of the study is to evaluate the extent of corruption in the South African environment. The systematic organization of scholarly sources and methods for combating corruption shows that because it jeopardizes the integrity of a respectable government, corruption generally opposes accountability and the rule of law. Anti-corruption initiatives in the nation are still hampered by several issues, notwithstanding efforts to eradicate corruption. The article explores explicitly that there are various factors causing corruption to exist despite all measures. These factors are political interference, resource constraints, lack of accountability, complex bureaucracy, nepotism and patronage, inadequate legal framework, cultural factors, economic factors, and global factors. Investigation in the paper is conducted in the following logical sequence: contextual framework of corruption in the country is explained during various timeframes, and after that, a theoretical framework is discussed. The research methodology is stated that is applied to gather information for this article. The methodology used is qualitative and a comprehensive literature review was conducted to collect information. The study made use of various journal articles, books, legislative frameworks, and official records of the Auditor-General and Public Service Commission to obtain relevant information. The data was assessed through documents and conceptual analysis. The findings indicate that, despite anti-corruption laws, policies, and organizations, South Africa still confronts a variety of significant obstacles to corruption. Political leaders who use their connections to further their own interests may be the ones to foster an environment of unethical governance, which makes weak governance one of the most annoying obstacles of all. The article’s conclusion suggests that reducing corruption requires a strong emphasis on social accountability, public engagement, and citizen participation. These are excellent strategies, but sometimes they are not implemented or applied consistently. To reduce corruption, it is advised to inculcate moral principles at all governmental and governed levels to ensure reciprocal accountability.