How do we change the perception that the South African Government is corrupt?

Question

The world out there thinks the ANC Government is corrupt. It does not matter if it is perception of the truth, it is hurting the image of South Africa in the international arenas.

How do we fix this?

Answer 1

Good question. I will be watching the replies. Hopefully someone comes up with a brainwave!!

Answer 2

Alf whateverhisname is does more to hurt your image in here. Start small and get rid of him

Answer 3

If it is not true, prove it by prosecuting Zuma, if it's true, change is necessary

Answer 4

The only way that we can change the perception is by changing the government.  Convicting Zuma would be a good start.

Answer 5

Well first of all, its the perception because it is true.  Second of all, corruption and government go hand in hand so there is really no way to get rid of it entirely.  I live in the US and know exactly what you are talking about...

Answer 6

I think all political bodies are a certain amount self-serving and corrupt everywhere in the world.  This is not unique to South Africa's government.  I agree with KB.  Some regulars such as Alf  paint a very negative picture, and it is these overwhelmingly negative perceptions which stick in the minds of readers who visit YASA to post or read travel questions.  Quoting ultra conservative press and blogs isn't helpful either.  A balance needs to be struck when citing sources.  This would be one small way of tempering South Africa's image in this forum.

As for the greater political picture, SA needs experienced, well moderated statesmen representing it in the international arenas.

Edit:  Let me be more general.  I am not suggesting you get rid of anybody, that is not my prerogative.  However, when certain writers are predictably negative or harsh (or the opposite extreme), after a while one starts not to read them and then the forum becomes meaningless.

Answer 7

There is now way that we get rid of Alf.

He has obviously declared himself the watchdog for South Africa who has to keep everyone out that would like to visit. He has said many times that he will never stop telling the people on here "the truth" about S.A.

What a sad life.

Answer 8

You have to get rid of them, whether they are corrupt or not it doesn't really matter where politics are concerned mud sticks.

Answer 9

Corruption is in most cases a perception, but a reality in some cases. Authorities must act against it. The only reason I just pour vomit on Alf’s postings about corruption and related issues is his tendency to pretend that his own country is corruption free. He also pretend to be an expert on South African politics. What makes him feel important is a legion of praises he normally gets from the racist platoon that used to be here.

That notwithstanding, there is a worrying tend of corruption in the public sector, and we must admit it. The fact that Zuma wants to be the President of the country despite the corruption allegations against him does not help the image, too. It would have been better if he went to court, and if proven not guilty then lead the country without doubts hanging over his head.

My answer to your question is – yes, some people are going overboard. But leaders like Zuma fuel the perceptions.    

Answer 10

Zimbabwe is doing bad because of the West conspiracy. South Africa will one day be like Zimbabwe...Just watch. They want show to the world: "see what happens when you have black pple in charge."

Answer 11

Yes, get rid of Alf....he is poisonous (also boring...same ol same old sniping all the time).  

Answer 12

Get rid of them

Answer 13

Perception can only be changed when the obvious is not happening. Our political parties MUST lead by example and take strong action against their own members who are corrupt and they should be expelled from the party.

We can also do our bit by not paying bribes to anyone. We as public encourage corruption by paying and our society will be a lot better should we stop this.