COMPANY CHECK
How ordinary citizens can punish unethical conduct
We need to come down hard on professionals in the private sector who show the middle finger to society’s values, writes David Lewis
The survey on ethical practices in the auditing and related professions conducted by the Anti-Intimidation and Ethical Practices Forum is important precisely because of its focus on ethics. The one principle of the rule of law that has been absorbed most deeply by those in power is that of "innocent until proven guilty". The repeated invocation of this grates for two reasons. First, because of the frequency with which it is invoked precisely by those who have so deeply corrupted our criminal justice system that the odds on them actually being charged — let alone found guilty — no matter how criminal their conduct, are extremely long. Second, the "innocent until proven guilty" mantra suggests the only bar to holding high office in the public or private sectors, but most particularly the public sector, is a guilty finding in a criminal court, and even then, plenty of latitude is given. Ask Social Development Minister Bathabile Dlamini. By focusing on ethics, this report suggests somet...
Would you like to comment on this article?
Sign up (it's quick and free) or sign in now.
Please read our Comment Policy before commenting.
Subscribe now to unlock this article.
Support BusinessLIVE’s award-winning journalism for R129 per month (digital access only).
There’s never been a more important time to support independent journalism in SA. Our subscription packages now offer an ad-free experience for readers.
Cancel anytime.
Questions? Email helpdesk@businesslive.co.za or call 0860 52 52 00. Got a subscription voucher? Redeem it now.