The Active Citizens’ Movement (ACM) has likened South Africa’s corruption crisis to a “health epidemic” that is steadily weakening society, as the country marks International Anti-Corruption Day on Tuesday.
South Africa has lost billions of rand to corruption over the years, with limited accountability and few successful prosecutions. The ACM says the scale of the problem demands urgent, collective action.
As part of its campaign, the organisation is calling on South Africans to light a candle against corruption between 7pm and 8pm on Tuesday evening a symbolic gesture aimed at “casting light on wrongdoing” and encouraging public vigilance.
ACM representative Dr Lubna Nadvi said civil society holds significant power in the fight against corruption.
“It’s important to remind ourselves that corruption exists globally and has been a persistent challenge for decades,” she said. “While we may not be able to eliminate it entirely, we can certainly work to limit its impact and prevent it from damaging our society and the way we function.”
The organisation urged communities, activists and ordinary citizens to stand together in demanding transparency, accountability and stronger action against those who abuse public trust.