Whistleblowers at risk: ActionSA pushes for tougher protection laws

Blowing the whistle on corruption in South Africa can cost you your life and ActionSA says that has to change. The party has unveiled a new “Fallen Whistleblowers’ Bill” aimed at strengthening protection for those who expose corruption and even rewarding them for doing so. This comes after the murder of security expert Marius van der Merwe, just weeks after testifying at a commission probing police corruption. With R800 billion in public procurement at stake every year, ActionSA argues whistleblowers are a frontline defence against graft and should be protected and paid for the risks they take. Phemelo speaks to ActionSA MP Malebo Kobe about the proposed incentives, stronger anonymity measures, and why the party believes government has dragged its feet for too long.