Press Statement: United Africans Transformation Condemns Extortion of any form in our country
For Immediate Release
The United Africans Transformation (UAT) is deeply concerned about the alarming rise of extortion activities in
both the construction industry and state institutions in South Africa. This escalating problem threatens the
economic stability of the country and undermines the trust in our governance structures.
In the construction sector, criminal syndicates, often referred to as “construction mafias,” have increasingly
resorted to extortion, intimidating businesses and demanding payment for so-called “protection” services. These
illegal practices have disrupted crucial infrastructure projects that are vital for the development of our
communities. UAT unequivocally condemns this lawlessness, which holds the country’s growth and development
hostage for the personal gain of these criminal elements.
Even more concerning is the rise of professional extortion within state institutions. UAT have received numerous
reports of businesses not being paid within the stipulated 30-day period due to demands for bribes or a percentage
cut by certain corrupt state officials. This is happening in many municipalities across the country. These officials,
who are entrusted with the responsibility of serving the public, are abusing their power for personal profit,
effectively engaging in professional extortion. This behavior is damaging the reputation of public institutions and
further entrenching a culture of corruption.
Professional extortion is a serious threat to the health of our nation’s economy and governance. It stifles
entrepreneurship, disrupts service delivery, and deepens the challenges of inequality and unemployment. The
United Africans Transformation is committed to addressing this issue and demands urgent action to put an end to
these corrupt practices.
As United Africans Transformation, we will write to the Auditor General and SIU so that the institutions conduct
auditing and investigation on Performance of payments in municipalities to expose professional extortion by
state officials
The information on record shows that this criminality is rampant in all government departments, police
ministry and key municipalities, including the Uthukela District Municipality, City of Ekurhuleni, City of
Johannesburg and City of Tshwane amongst others. We urge SIU to investigate this practice as it negatively
impacts on development of our country.
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For media inquiries, please contact:
Doer Mighty Mabule: UAT Head of Communications & National Spokesperson
071 875 0854, mightym@uat2023.org.za www.uat2023.org.za
UAT Media Liaison Office
Media@uat2023.org.za
0608252238
www.uat2023.org.za
