The Zondo commission: All bark and no bite?

The Zondo Commission, formally known as the Judicial Commission of Inquiry into Allegations of State Capture, exposed extensive corruption in South Africa's public sector, implicating top officials and business figures in looting the state. However, five years since its inception, the primary issue remains the lack of prosecutions against those implicated. Despite detailed findings and recommendations laid out in its 5,000+ page report, there has been little tangible progress in holding high-profile individuals accountable. The National Prosecuting Authority (NPA), tasked with pursuing criminal cases based on the commission's recommendations, has seen slow action, contributing to growing public frustration and disillusionment. Moreover, ongoing delays in pursuing justice raise concerns that systemic issues, such as political interference, may be undermining the effectiveness of these efforts.
Judge Raymond Zondo, who chaired the commission, has called for stronger mechanisms to tackle corruption, including the establishment of a permanent anti-corruption body. Although President Cyril Ramaphosa's administration has initiated reforms—like professionalizing the public sector and banning public officials from doing business with the state—major recommendations, such as prosecuting those involved in the first version of State Capture and preventing a recurrence, have seen limited progress. Without significant steps to enforce accountability, experts worry that the conditions for future State Capture remain.
Dear South Africa wants to make sure your voice is heard, and so we are submitting a report consisting of your opinions on this matter to the Parliamentary Committees for Justice and Policing on the 11th of November 2024. You have until the 6th of November to have your say.

In a democracy the people have the power, that means that your voice and your opinion is important. By ignoring this issue, the idea of public participation in South Africa might suffer, as government sees that ignoring the people’s voice has no real repercussions. Have your voice be heard, for democracy, and for the future of our country.