It also shows, in stark contrast to ANC-run administrations, that there is a causal link between clean and accountable government and vastly improved service delivery. This government must take heed and stop the rot in our provinces and municipalities.
Perhaps when the President replies to this debate on Thursday, he will include a commitment ... [Interjections.] ... by his administration - he's ignored corruption long enough, hon Manuel - for bold new actions in the fight against corruption, cronyism and maladministration.
The President has an opportunity to side with the people of South Africa, particularly the poor, marginalised and vulnerable who feel the sting of corruption the hardest. South Africa needs protection from politicians and officials who abuse the trust placed in them and who line their own pockets and misdirect state resources for personal enrichment. [Interjections.]
If the government fails to deal with the tide of corruption then it will undermine and wash away all the virtuous ends of what the President announced in his address to the nation. It will infect every infrastructure project you have outlined and will devour the funds earmarked for desperately needed social upliftment and relief. Mr President, the time for talk is now over. It is time for action. [Applause.]