A critical exploration of the ethical dilemmas surrounding the state capture phenomenon in South Africa.

Abstract

This dissertation offers a critical exploration of the ethical dilemmas surrounding state capture phenomenon in South Africa. This paper argues that state capture has been an ongoing threat under every leadership of the African National Congress since the country transitioned to democracy in 1994. State capture in South Africa mostly became prominent under the governance of former president Jacob Zuma, when former public protector Thuli Madonsela released a report in 2016 into several allegations of state capture, fraud and corruption. This included key prominent figures of the African National Congress. This dissertation interrogates and the ethical dilemmas that arose from this ongoing state capture phenomenon in South Africa. State capture refers to a systematic political corruption that substantially occurs when private interests sway a state's decision-making procedures to their own benefit rather than the good of the public. This study is guided by the ethical theory of Consequentialism, which judges whether an act is ethical by what its consequences are. Using the desktop research approach, the study analysed existing reports, scholarly literature, and public documents to understand how state capture has affected the country’s social, economic and political systems. The findings of the study reveal that state capture phenomena have greatly undermined the ethical foundation of governance in the country. State capture has resulted to a great deterioration of public trust, as citizens have lost faith in state institutions that are meant to serve them. In addition, ethical leadership has also declined as several governmental officials prioritized personal and political gain over the collective well-being of its citizens. Moreover, the culture of self-enrichment has become widespread, consequently leading to the mismanagement of public funds and deep-rooted inequality. These outcomes have weakened the rule of law, democratic accountability and have further delayed the socio-economicprogress in the country. Ultimately, having provided academic insights that may inform strategies to address state capture from future abuses in South Africa, the study concludes that addressing these ethical dilemmas requires the strengthening of transparency, accountability and moral integrity within government structures. Restoring these values is crucial for rebuilding public confidence, promoting morality and advancing the common good of the public in South Africa.