As South Africa grapples with multiple overlapping crises, ranging from allegations of high-level corruption to persistent xenophobia and the fallout of climate disasters, the President of the Southern African Catholic Bishops Conference (SACBC) has urged both national leaders and citizens to embrace ethical accountability, reconciliation, and inclusive engagement.

Speaking during an exclusive interview on July 14, 2025, Cardinal Stephen Brislin welcomed President Cyril Ramaphosa’s decisive action in addressing the explosive allegations against the Minister of Police, calling it a “difficult but necessary” decision that signals seriousness about state integrity.

“We must express our deep gratitude to the President,” Cardinal Brislin said. “There is no proof yet regarding the allegations, but placing the Minister on leave and launching a judicial inquiry are steps in the right direction. Most importantly, the results of this investigation must be made public.”

In the interview with the SACBC communication office, Cardinal Brislin emphasised the Church’s prophetic role in society, saying that while the Church does not presume guilt, it must advocate for ethical leadership and call society back to a moral compass.

“Corruption is destroying our society,” he stated, warning that South Africa cannot afford to follow the path of nations where organised crime, law enforcement, and political power are deeply intertwined.

Concern Over Lack of Catholic Presence in National Dialogue

Turning to the issue of the National Dialogue, Cardinal Brislin expressed disappointment that no Catholic representative was included in the initial list of participants. “It’s a missed opportunity,” he said, noting the Church’s long and constructive history in South Africa—from its contributions to education and healthcare, to its role during the apartheid struggle.

“We’ve made our appeal to be included,” he affirmed, “but regardless of whether we are formally listed or not, we will participate.”

The Cardinal cautioned, however, that the dialogue must remain authentic, inclusive, and transparent, warning against political manipulation. He encouraged political parties, civil society, and religious institutions to see the National Dialogue as a space for genuine renewal and not merely symbolic optics.

Healing the Wounds of the Past and Responding to the Present

Reflecting on the recent sentencing of Johan Marais, a former apartheid agent found guilty of murdering student activist Sipho Motaung in 1987, Cardinal Brislin described it as a moment of painful but necessary truth.

“Closure is vital,” he said. “Many families still don’t know what happened to their loved ones. The TRC (Truth and Reconciliation Commission) was a generous opportunity for amnesty and truth-telling—tragically, many chose not to participate.”

He connected this unfinished process of healing to the country’s ongoing racial and social fractures, including xenophobic violence targeting undocumented migrants. “We cannot forget that many of those targeted are themselves victims—fleeing poverty, conflict, and insecurity,” he said. “Government must urgently regulate migration more effectively, but ordinary South Africans must rediscover compassion.”

Caritas Response to Flood Victims in the Eastern Cape

Cardinal Brislin also highlighted the work of Caritas South Africa in assisting flood victims in the Eastern Cape, where over 100 lives were lost. The Diocese of Mthatha, which was worst affected, has received donations from Caritas structures across the country. These efforts, he said, reflect the Church’s ongoing mission to respond to the most vulnerable.

A Joyful Moment for the Church in Southern Africa

Despite the nation’s struggles, Cardinal Brislin closed with hopeful news: the recent appointment of two SACBC bishops to Vatican Dicasteries. “These appointments by Pope Leo XIV are a sign of confidence not only in the Catholic Church in South Africa but in Africa as a whole,” he said.