SONA2024: Ramaphosa’s Addresses The Consequences Of State Capture

During his 2024 State of the Nation address in Cape Town, President Cyril Ramaphosa highlighted the lasting consequences of state capture in South Africa.

Describing it as the greatest damage inflicted upon the country, Ramaphosa emphasised how individuals at the highest levels of the state colluded with private entities to take control of state-owned companies, law enforcement agencies, and public institutions.

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The president acknowledged that state capture was made possible by both local and multinational companies, resulting in the misappropriation of billions of rands that were intended to address the needs of ordinary South Africans. This widespread corruption eroded confidence in the country and severely weakened public institutions.

Ramaphosa pointed out that the effects of state capture are still evident today, manifesting in failing logistical systems, crumbling public services, underperforming power stations, and failed development projects. To combat this, the president’s top priority is to decisively end state capture and dismantle the criminal networks within the state.

The government has taken significant steps towards restoring South African institutions and rebuilding the economy. Appointments of capable individuals with integrity have been made to head law enforcement agencies, government departments, security services, and state-owned companies. Over 200 accused individuals are currently being prosecuted, and freezing orders of R14 billion have been granted to the NPA’s Asset Forfeiture Unit for state capture-related cases.

Furthermore, R8.6 billion in corrupt proceeds have been returned to the state, and the South African Revenue Service (Sars) has collected R4.8 billion in unpaid taxes due to evidence presented at the Commission. The Special Investigating Unit has also initiated civil litigation amounting to R64 billion.

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To strengthen the fight against corruption, legislation is underway to establish the Investigating Directorate as a permanent entity with full investigating powers. Despite these efforts, President Ramaphosa acknowledged that more work needs to be done to eradicate corruption entirely.

In his address, Ramaphosa also acknowledged the impact of the July 2021 unrest, where individuals with their own interests attempted to incite a popular insurrection. He commended the people of South Africa for standing firm in defense of the Constitution and its promise of a better life for all, despite the tragic loss of life and widespread destruction.