Cape town: As the office of the Public Protector South Africa (PPSA) marks 30 years, President Cyril Ramaphosa has highlighted its significant role in safeguarding South Africa’s vision of equality, unity, democracy, prosperity, and freedom. Addressing a dinner to celebrate the anniversary of the Office of the Public Protector on Tuesday, the President compared public institutions to guardians who protect citizens when they are failed by public officials.

According to South African Government News Agency, President Ramaphosa emphasized the necessity of accountability within public institutions, acknowledging that misuse of power and neglect can occur. He underscored the importance of the Public Protector as a guardian to hold public officials accountable and remedy deficiencies. At the dinner held in Cape Town, Ramaphosa urged public officials to support the Office of the Public Protector and abide by its remedial actions.

The President stressed the importance of maintaining the independence of the Public Protector’s office, asserting that it is crucial for such institutions to be free from influence to effectively uphold constitutional democracy. He noted that the drafters of the Constitution intended for Chapter 9 institutions to be powerful and responsible in supporting democratic values, operating without fear, favor, or prejudice.

Ramaphosa described the Public Protector as a “moral mirror of the state,” highlighting its role as a guardian of public interest and a mechanism for ensuring government accountability. The effectiveness of the Public Protector, he argued, is indicative of the health of the nation’s democracy. The office not only addresses individual complaints but also tackles systemic issues, leading to policy changes that benefit the broader society.

The President also pointed out the Public Protector’s authority to investigate all levels of government, from presidents to senior officials, showcasing its role in holding the powerful accountable. He emphasized that a Constitution holds value only when the rights of the vulnerable are defended equally with those of the powerful.

Over the past 30 years, the Office of the Public Protector has built strong relationships with citizens and various state institutions. Ramaphosa highlighted the importance of cooperation and collaboration among state organs, viewing the Public Protector as a partner in serving the people of South Africa.