Group defends democracy in anti corruption campaign
Banners were strung atop the bridge over Himalayas Road freeway echoing rallying cries and calling on passing motorists to ‘Hoot against Corruption’.
THE Merebank branch of the Active Citizens Movement (ACM) held a placard demonstration on the bridge over the Himalayas Road freeway recently, as part of the Defend our Democracy Orange Mask anti-corruption campaign.
Enthusiastic members were in bright orange T-shirts and orange masks with the slogan Say no to corruption signifying the orange jumpsuits that the group believes looters should be in.
Banners were strung atop the bridge echoing similar rallying cries and calling on passing motorists to ‘Hoot against Corruption’.
The messages were well received and ACM members believe that large numbers of the community will support their call.
“We want to grow this non-political civil society movement into an unstoppable force on the part of decent law-abiding citizens to put an end to looting and corruption that is so widespread in South Africa,” said ACM Convenor of the Orange Mask Campaign, Pops Rampersad.
The organisation has been busy on several initiatives since its last demonstrations in December 2020.
These include organisational review and restructuring and mapping out the programme of action for this year.
“Many significant initiatives have been undertaken including making input at the Zondo Commission calling for improved legislation and better protection and treatment of whistleblowers.”
“The current Public Disclosures Act does not afford whistleblowers sufficient protection as they are often persecuted and left jobless with expensive litigation to fund,” he said.
Members of ACM were keen to get back to the streets. There have been various demonstrations held at the Durban High Court as well as highly visible intersections.
Their placards also showed support for the Zondo Commission. ACM is also encouraged by the crop of new youth members who are committed to clean governance and in promoting the Constitution of SA.
“We are also mindful of attacks on the judiciary as we view it as an assault on our democracy itself. These institutions have served us well as a country and we need to protect them.”
“Indeed, institutions such as the NPA must be better resourced to deal with the avalanche of looting and thieving that is being exposed at the Zondo Commission. Posters also called on former president Jacob Zuma to account to the Zondo Commission or face the consequences of his decision to defy it,” Rampersad added.
The ACM placard demonstrations will continue at various strategic points. Call or send a message to 067-007-7132 for details.
