Soundbite by Dr Mark Burke MP
The DA commends the work, focus and commitment of government in getting South Africa out of the financial-transaction purgatory known as the grey list. Since entering government, we’ve helped work to secure this outcome. But there is no room for complacency.
Now we must build momentum by ramping up successful prosecutions of financial crime. We want South Africa to be a hostile place for cartels, but a welcoming destination for reputable investors who bring jobs and growth.
Exiting the grey list is a solid first step. We need the same political will and policy focus to improve debt ratings, reduce red tape, and improve how government spends money.
Prior to being greylisted, the DA spent years warning the ANC government that failing to tighten controls, reporting and capacity to deal with financial crimes would have serious consequences.
We take no pleasure that our warnings materialised. We only hope that by continuing to advocate for strengthening controls, South Africa avoids a costly relapse.