Ethics month dialogue highlights need for ethical leadership and institutional trust

Johannesburg, South Africa, 14 October 2026 – Earlier this month, the South African Institute of Chartered Accountants (SAICA), in partnership with the OECD, hosted a high-level Ethics Month dialogue focused on the role of ethics, integrity and leadership in strengthening trust in South Africa's institutions.

The discussion took place against the backdrop of a country grappling with profound questions about governance, accountability and public confidence in institutions. Participants reflected on the broader national conversation unfolding across South Africa, including issues being examined through the Madlanga Commission, concerns regarding public sector governance, and the ongoing challenge of restoring trust in institutions at a time when citizens continue to demand greater transparency, accountability and ethical leadership.

A recurring theme throughout the engagement was that ethics must extend beyond compliance and regulation. Participants emphasised that ethical leadership is ultimately tested when institutions and leaders are faced with difficult decisions, competing interests and heightened public scrutiny. They further noted that public trust is not sustained through policy alone, but through consistent conduct, principled decision-making and a demonstrated commitment to serving the public interest.

The dialogue also considered the importance of ethical governance as South Africa prepares for future local government elections and continues efforts to strengthen confidence in public institutions. Discussions highlighted that rebuilding trust requires a collective commitment from leaders in government, business, the professions and civil society to uphold integrity, transparency and accountability in both word and action.

SAICA believes these conversations remain particularly important at a time when South Africans are asking fundamental questions about how institutions can become more responsive, credible and trusted. Ethics Month served as an important reminder that strong institutions depend not only on robust frameworks and oversight mechanisms, but on the values and behaviours of those entrusted to lead them.

Issued by the SAICA Corporate Affairs and Stakeholder Engagement Team

About SAICA

The South African Institute of Chartered Accountants (SAICA), South Africa’s pre-eminent accountancy body, is recognised as the world’s leading accounting institute and is home to the leading CA designation in the world. The Institute provides a wide range of support services to more than 60 000 members and associates who are chartered accountants (CAs[SA]), as well as associate general accountants (AGAs[SA]) and accounting technicians (ATs[SA]), who hold positions as CEOs, MDs, board directors, business owners, chief financial officers, auditors and leaders in every sphere of commerce and industry, and who play a significant role in the nation’s highly dynamic business sector and economic development.

SAICA is a member of Chartered Accountants Worldwide (CAW), a global family that connects over 1,8 million fellow Chartered Accountants and students in more than 190 countries. Together, we support, develop, and promote the role of Chartered Accountants as trusted business leaders, difference makers, and advisers.

SAICA media contact

Kgauhelo Dioka, kgauhelod@saica.co.za or +27 68 087 1867

Manager: Corporate Communications and Stakeholder Engagement

SAICA Strategic Affairs division