BY MFANUFIKILE KHATHWANE
MATSAPHA – The Managing Director of Ubombo Sugar Limited, Muzi Siyaya, has urged a cultural shift towards ethical leadership and merit-based appointments in both the public and private sectors, warning that institutionalised corruption is eroding values and weakening governance structures.
Speaking at the launch of the King V Principles and Recommended Practices for Corporate Governance guide at Esibayeni Lodge, Matsapha, on 6 November 2025, Siyaya said that corruption has become deeply entrenched in society, with wealth acquired through questionable means increasingly celebrated. He added that society no longer honours hard work and honesty, and instead measures success by contributions to political or corporate ambitions, regardless of the source of income.
Siyaya emphasised that ethical leadership is the strongest antidote to corruption. He said competence and integrity should guide all board appointments, and urged boards to maintain independence by avoiding overfamiliarity with management, practising self-censure, and ensuring regular renewal of members.
He noted that effective governance requires independence of mind and warned that long-serving board members risk blurring the lines between governance and management. Siyaya stressed that restoring professional distance and prioritising merit-based leadership is crucial to rebuilding trust in institutions.
The Ubombo Sugar MD also praised the Public Enterprise Unit (PEU) for establishing a national database of qualified professionals, describing it as a step towards reducing nepotism and cronyism.
Siyaya further highlighted the growing importance of environmental, social, and governance (ESG) principles, urging organisations to consider their impact on people, communities, and the planet. He added that businesses today must be responsible citizens, noting that profit alone is no longer sufficient.
He concluded by calling on leaders across all sectors to recommit to governance that genuinely serves the people and builds sustainable value for future generations.
