As South Africa continues to grapple with corruption, governance failures, and declining public trust in institutions, the question of ethical leadership has become increasingly urgent. For universities that prepare the country’s future leaders, the challenge is not only to teach ethics as a concept but to cultivate leaders who practise integrity, accountability, and transparency in their decisions.

These issues formed the focus of a guest lecture presented to students at the University of the Free State (UFS) Business School by Dr Mathews Phosa, an attorney, former Premier of Mpumalanga, and former Treasurer General of the African National Congress. Drawing on decades of experience in politics and public life, Dr Phosa reflected candidly on the state of leadership in South Africa and urged students to see ethical leadership as central to rebuilding public trust and strengthening democracy.

Ethical leadership in a time of national reflection

Dr Phosa warned that South Africa is facing a serious erosion of ethical governance, noting that growing perceptions of corruption and weak accountability threaten both democracy and public confidence. “There are very serious red lights flashing for our government and our democracy because of growing perceptions that we have lost our way as far as ethical government is concerned,” he said.

He argued that corruption should never be tolerated, regardless of political position or influence. “A person that steals from public funds is a thief, irrespective of his or her political position or high-level connections.”

Reflecting on the gap between political promises and the lived experiences of many South Africans, Dr Phosa called for greater honesty from those entrusted with leadership. “We have not been truthful when we promised that we will work tirelessly for a better life for all. Our track record in this regard is poor, and we should be ashamed.”

He also outlined several measures that could help strengthen ethical governance and restore public confidence in leadership. “Give teeth to existing prosecution agencies and establish special courts tasked only with corruption.”

Emphasising the importance of personal integrity in leadership, he encouraged students to adopt a values-driven approach in their future careers. “Be ethical leaders and practise servant leadership. Leadership must serve the people.”

He also stressed the role of universities in shaping leaders capable of making principled decisions in complex environments. “Universities must equip students to lead with integrity, transparency, and accountability.”

Prof Philippe Burger, Dean of the Faculty of Economic and Management Sciences, said the discussion reflects the growing need to strengthen ethical leadership in both the public and private sectors. Prof Burger noted that recurring commissions of inquiry and corruption scandals demonstrate the importance of reinforcing ethical behaviour through education.

“Ethics is not something you simply study. It is something you are and something you live,” he said, adding that the faculty aims to ensure that students understand ethical leadership as a practical responsibility. “Students should not only learn ethical leadership in theory. It must become part of the DNA of how they lead and build sustainable businesses.”

Kabelo Motsoari, a Master of Business Administration student at the Business School, said the lecture stood out for its direct and honest reflection on the country’s leadership challenges. “Dr Phosa did not beat around the bush about the realities facing South Africa. He spoke openly about issues many leaders avoid.”