THE CANCER THAT IS CORRUPTION

It is conceivable that I may not survive long enough to experience the event when it eventually occurs.

I am prepared, though to embrace a bold stance by asserting that the pervasive issue of corruption within our nation is, indeed, likely to culminate in the collapse of the governmental framework. This is particularly true if the administration persists in providing only superficial responses, however, failing to undertake authentic measures aimed at eradicating this grave concern. Although there may be attempts to address the problem, such endeavours often prove inadequate because they lack the necessary depth and commitment.

Kahleni Maswati akitsi...Kwangatsi senenta kakhulu ngale corruption. Kunge’neni kantsi ye nabakitsi? What exactly has transpired in our nation to allow the insidious spread of such a destructive and potentially harmful cancer - corruption - to take hold and cause significant turmoil in a country renowned for its beauty and warmth? However, one must ponder the underlying factors contributing to this disturbing reality. Although the roots of this corruption are complex, they stem from various systemic issues that have persisted over time (numbering in the dozens). Because the societal fabric has been compromised, this deterioration is not merely an isolated incident; it represents a broader malaise affecting governance.
But one must ask: how did we arrive at this juncture?

Are current government administrative systems vulnerable to manipulation by the ungodly in the echelons of power? Is there any political will to eradicate this (corruption) nemesis to development, democratic principles and peace? However, the question remains: Can such entrenched forces be effectively countered? Although efforts may exist, they often falter because of systemic inertia. This complexity presents significant challenges, but it also underscores the necessity for a rigorous examination of existing frameworks.

Troubling

It is also deeply troubling to observe that whenever people interact with friends or when citizens come together to socialise, the conversations almost invariably focus on the systemic corruption that infests some structures in the government machinery. In recent years, a palpable sense of urgency has emerged among the citizens of Eswatini for change - a transformation in the political landscape that goes beyond mere rhetoric. This desire is not just a fleeting sentiment; it reflects a deep-seated frustration with persistent corruption coupled with the repressive characteristics of the current regime. Yet, while many express their hopes for a new political framework, the harsh realities of systemic inertia cast a long shadow over these aspirations.

A growing section of the populace - activists, civil society organisations, and ordinary citizens have voiced their concerns about corruption at various levels of government, where rampant nepotism and unethical practices undermine the rule of law and diminish public trust. Before I delve deeper in today’s article theme, I want to take you down memory lane and mention how some governments globally in the past collapsed as a result of systematic corruption.

It is an indisputable fact that throughout the annals of history governments have ascended and subsequently descended, frequently bequeathing a legacy of chaos and suffering. One of the more insidious factors contributing to these collapses is systematic corruption - a pervasive and entrenched form of corruption that seeps into the very fabric of governance.
For those who may not know what systematic corruption is, it refers to a state of affairs, where corrupt practices are insidiously condoned and not given vigorous attention across political, economic and social systems.Rather than being isolated incidents of wrongdoing, these (corrupt) practices are routinised, creating environments where politicians and bureaucrats engage in unethical behaviour without fear of reprisal. As a result, public trust diminishes, institutions weaken, and the ability of the government to function effectively erodes.

Exacerbate

This is precisely what we are presently witnessing (in the nation). Corruption has morphed into a culture and it has apparently spiralled beyond control in the country. It will exacerbate (this situation) if the administration persists in treating this nemesis with kid gloves; however, a more stringent approach is necessary, because the ramifications of such negligence are profound. Although many may argue that reform is possible, the reality remains that without decisive action, the problem will only proliferate. Below, are a few examples of countries that were either collapsed by the scourge of corruption or are currently experiencing the scourge:

One of the most frequently cited exemplars of systematic corruption (which led to governmental collapse) can be discerned in the case of the former Soviet Union. By the 1980s, historical records point to how the Soviet government was already riddled with corruption, because party leaders, bureaucrats and benefactors exploited their positions for personal gain.
It is pointed out (with some urgency) that resources which should have been allocated to the public - such as healthcare, education and infrastructure - were siphoned off into the hands of the privileged few. Does this ring any bells?

The result was a vast disconnect between government and its citizens, who faced shortages and declining living standards. This deep-seated corruption not only caused economic disarray, however, it also bred disillusionment, resulting in widespread protests that ultimately culminated in the disintegration of the Soviet Union in 1991. Another striking example is the case of Zimbabwe under Robert Mugabe. Initially hailed as a liberation hero, Mugabe’s government gradually descended into chaos fuelled by rampant corruption. With a focus on enriching his allies and himself, Mugabe’s administration mismanaged resources, leading to hyperinflation and severe economic decline.

The once-prosperous nation viewed by many as the ‘bread basket’ of the Zimbabwean nation as well as the African continent, saw its currency become worthless, and basic services ground to a halt. The resulting economic collapse sparked widespread protests and international condemnation, ultimately leading to Mugabe’s ousting in 2017. Things have not gotten any better with the ushering in of a new government led by Emmerson Mnangagwa. Zimbabwe is allegedly still a great concern in as far as poor governance and corruption is concerned.
That being said, we cannot deceive ourselves into thinking that corruption is merely a singular vice. It manifests as a cancer that affects numerous governments globally; often undermining their very foundations.

Corruption

Systematic corruption does not simply arise from the actions of individual wrongdoers: Instead, it permeates the entire structure of government (impacting institutions, processes and public trust itself). The devastating ramifications of such widespread corruption have, indeed, resulted in the collapse of various governments throughout history. I welcome any corrections, but I firmly believe that the commitment to eliminate corruption in Eswatini is merely superficial. It is widely believed that some individuals responsible for misappropriating public funds are known, yet their positions of power and their connections to the existing system make it exceedingly difficult to hold them accountable. This situation has led to a public sentiment that echoes the idea that ‘all animals are equal, but some animals are more equal than others,’ as articulated in George Orwell’s classic work, ‘Animal Farm.’

Although some leaders in the country acknowledge the problem of corruption, it is possible that they find it challenging to enact meaningful change because of too much red tape; but the urgency of the situation calls for decisive action. In the country, the administration has established committees that - in the words of the administration - will leave no stone unturned in effectively addressing corruption which would eventually lead to those implicated facing the long arm of the law. Is there evidence of committed action to these promises, so far? You be the judge.Thus far, the future appears despondent in our country. Almost daily (indeed, with alarming regularity), the nation’s media disseminates startling accounts of corruption. The healthcare, education and other sectors find themselves enmeshed in corruption cases. The parliamentary entity - namely, the Public Accounts Committee (PAC) - is inundated with investigations of corrupt practices within government ministries.

Corruption cases unearthed by the Auditor General’s (AG) Office resembles a cinematic narrative. The editor of this publication, in her recent column (‘Telling like it is’), elucidated some shocking instances of corruption. Her article was provocatively titled, ‘Have we embraced corruption?’ This, indeed, poses a million-dollar question. However, the implications of such inquiries extend far beyond mere rhetoric, as they beckon a deeper reflection on the moral fabric of society.

Destroy

Are we (as a nation) so numbed by the incessantly reported cases of corruption such that we now consider it a normal occurrence and culture? Are we (still) going to look the other way, fold our arms, while immoral oligarchs systematically destroy this beautiful country? However, this raises a critical dilemma: How long can we endure such passivity? Although many may argue that the situation is hopeless, it is essential to recognise the dangers posed by corruption - and take decisive action. Because the integrity of our nation hangs in the balance, we must confront these issues with urgency and resolve; otherwise, we risk becoming complicit in our own degradation.

In numerous other cases, pervasive corruption has led not only to the downfall of governments but has also hindered the advancement and development of entire nations. When public officials partake in corrupt activities, vital services deteriorate, and the rule of law erodes, creating a climate of instability and disorder. Resources that ought to serve the public good are instead exploited by a select group of privileged individuals.

Despite these widespread sentiments for fundamental change, the entrenched Tinkhundla System of Government exhibits a remarkable resilience and defiance to reforms. Attempts to initiate discussions on political transition often appear futile as the ruling powers maintain their grip on governance. The obstacles to reform are not merely political; they are deeply rooted in social and economic structures that have historically favoured the status quo. This systemic inertia creates a challenging environment for those advocating for change, leaving many feeling disillusioned and powerless.

Yet, amid this daunting landscape, hope persists. The conversations around reform continue to evolve, shedding light on the necessity of a united front among citizens of eSwatini. Increasing awareness of issues related to governance, human rights and corruption has instigated a more informed populace willing to challenge injustices. It is imperative to advise our leaders to take all necessary measures to prevent a potential uprising from the grassroots in the future, which may be incited by unethical behaviours such as corruption. History has shown that hunger can often serve as a trigger for civil unrest. Therefore, prioritising the welfare of the populace is essential. It is disheartening to observe a small minority indulging in extravagant lifestyles funded by corrupt practices, while the vast majority remain entrenched in poverty.

The youth of today face significant unemployment challenges. Many now view education as a futile pursuit, as they invest years in academic institutions only to graduate and find themselves wandering the streets in search of jobs that do not exist. This situation fosters frustration, leading to anger and resentment. The nation is still grappling with the shocking phenomenon of young individuals engaging in scams, particularly through Mobile Money fraud, commonly referred to as ‘facata’.

Unethical

Examine the underlying factors that have might have led our youth to engage in unethical methods of earning a livelihood...You might be surprised to discover the real reasons. There may (and, will) come a time when the populace rises in opposition to the governing system if our leaders do not exercise caution. A similar occurrence transpired in 2021. Should such a situation arise again, the consequences could be far more severe and fatal than those experienced that year. It is essential to learn from historical events. As the saying goes, prevention is preferable to remedy. A senior citizen like yours truly offers this warning. The country needs rigorous, but peaceful advocacy, community engagement and informed support. Among a section of the populace, there remains hope that the yearning for a more democratic and accountable governance will not remain a distant dream, but rather evolve into a tangible reality. The fight for an equitable and just Eswatini is a testament to the resilience of its people in the face of adversity.

Many express a strong desire for change, yearning for a new political framework that could effectively address the widespread corruption and the repressive characteristics of the current Eswatini regime. Nevertheless, this desire for change often seems in vain, as the established systems are resistant to alteration. While there may be no glimmer of hope in these discussions, (the harsh realities of systemic inertia continuing to pose significant challenges), let us not despair. Let’s collectively work together in saving this country from destructive practices like corruption..

Peace! Shalom!

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