From authority to action: leveraging existing powers to prevent corruption

How can current measures be used earlier, more consistently and in combination to prevent corruption from recurring?

Date: 2026-11-19

Time: 09:30 to 12:30

Venue: Online via Zoom. In person at the CSIR International Convention Centre, Meiring Naudé Road, Brummeria, Pretoria

Before corruption causes further harm, South Africa needs to shift from reactive law enforcement to proactive prevention. While investigation and criminal prosecution remain indispensable, they almost always occur after public money has been lost, assets have been dissipated, and corrupt networks have become entrenched.

South Africa has an extensive body of existing legal authority – encompassing administrative, financial, regulatory, disciplinary, civil, and oversight powers. But these powers are often underutilised or operate in institutional silos. Drawing on a forthcoming ISS Policy Brief, this discussion brings together key anti-corruption leaders to discuss better use of existing prevention measures.

This event is co-hosted by the Institute for Security Studies (ISS) and the Special Investigating Unit (SIU).

Moderator: Ferial Haffajee, Associate Editor, Daily Maverick

Panelists:

• Thami Zikode, Acting Head of Audit, Office of the Auditor-General of South Africa
• Salomon Hoogenraad-Vermaak, Head, Public Administration Ethics, Integrity and Disciplinary Technical Assistance Unit, Department of Public Service and Administration
• Sekoetlane Phamodi, Director, New Economy Hub & former member of the National Anti-Corruption Advisory Council
• Pranesh Maharaj, Chief Programme Portfolio Officer, Special Investigating Unit