In a determined effort to foster a more just, inclusive, and fundamentally transformed society, Cooperative Governance and Traditional Affairs (CoGTA) Minister, Thembi Nkadimeng, reaffirmed the government’s commitment. Speaking at the Summit on Ethical Leadership in Local Government in Johannesburg, Minister Nkadimeng underscored the pivotal role of ethical leadership in driving societal change, particularly within local government structures which serve as the bedrock of service delivery and protection of human rights.
Ethical leadership, as emphasized by Minister Nkadimeng, epitomizes integrity, accountability, and a dedicated service ethos towards the citizens. It entails a holistic approach towards addressing historical injustices, confronting present challenges, and ensuring universal access to essential services, thereby fostering a dignified existence for all South Africans. Nkadimeng highlighted the imperative of providing clean water to the elderly, stressing its critical role in healthcare maintenance and upholding dignity.
Furthermore, ethical leadership encompasses a comprehensive understanding of Local Economic Development (LED) and its significance in driving sustainable growth, empowering local enterprises, and catalyzing socio-economic advancement. Minister Nkadimeng reiterated the government’s stance against corruption, affirming the principle of equitable service delivery and adherence to democratic values.
Acknowledging the progress made in expanding access to essential services, as evidenced by Statistics South Africa’s Census 2022, Minister Nkadimeng emphasized the persistent challenges of inequality, systemic injustices, and poverty. These issues, she asserted, demand concerted efforts from leaders and stakeholders in local government to prioritize the needs of vulnerable communities and strive for an equitable future.
Echoing Minister Nkadimeng’s sentiments, Advocate Shamila Batohi, Head of the National Prosecuting Authority (NPA), stressed the critical importance of service delivery in local governance. Batohi highlighted the detrimental effects of corruption on communities and emphasized the necessity of strong leadership and rigorous criminal investigations to combat it effectively.
Similarly, Advocate Andy Mothibi, Head of the Special Investigating Unit (SIU), underscored the link between ethical leadership and governance quality. Mothibi emphasized the need for robust measures to address corruption and uphold ethical standards across all government sectors.
The Summit on Ethical Leadership in Local Government, a culmination of the Local Government Ethical Leadership Initiative (LGELI), signifies a collaborative endeavor between various stakeholders. LGELI, established to develop the Code for Ethical Leadership in Local Government, embodies a commitment to combat corruption and promote transparency within local governance structures.
As South Africa continues its journey towards societal transformation, ethical leadership remains a cornerstone for fostering accountability, transparency, and inclusivity within local government. Through sustained collaboration and unwavering dedication, stakeholders endeavor to build a future where every citizen can thrive, irrespective of their background or circumstance.
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