Corruption is just propaganda – Zuma

·1 Aug 2016

President Jacob Zuma has told ANC supporters at a rally in Johannesburg that his party will root out all forms of corruption at the wards it wins in the August 3 elections.

Zuma was speaking at the party’s final rally at Emirates Stadium on Sunday, saying the ANC will only appoint those who are “qualified”.

“Good governance is the cornerstone of a well-run city or town,” Zuma said.

“The ANC wants an end to all forms of corruption and will diligently pursue all those who are corrupt.

Zuma said the ANC would insist that councils employ appropriately qualified or experienced senior personnel.

“We discourage municipalities from outsourcing the basic services they are able to render themselves.

“We will also ensure that services are procured whenever possible from a local community and where municipal services remain the core function of municipalities.”

Zuma also said the ANC will prioritise citizen care, and will treat people with “respect, dignity and courtesy” when they visit municipal offices for assistance.

The current ANC president was received with song by the thousands of supporters that initially packed the stadium.

Hundreds of people started leaving the stadium as Zuma’s speech progressed, especially those sitting in the shade as a chilly breeze swept through the venue.

The party risks not winning a majority in the Tshwane metro, according to polls, and the vote in Johannesburg could be close too.

News24 asked president Zuma what he would do if he found out one of his mayors was corrupt.

Zuma said: “At times they name wrong people who are not corrupt, so to me, the issue really of corruption or whatever, must be backed by facts. This is a democratic country, this is a country that respects the law, but people have never brought anyone, but they keep on saying these people are corrupt. It’s just propaganda really.”

News24