Image: Timothy Bernard Independent Media
Civil society organisations united under Corruption Watch have urged the Minister of Justice and Constitutional Development, Mmamoloko Kubayi, to reconsider the deadline for public comments on the proposed Protected Disclosures Bill, 2026, which is currently set for Thursday, May 14, 2026.
This pivotal piece of legislation aims to overhaul South Africa’s whistleblower protection framework, promising enhanced safeguards, clearer procedures, and financial incentives for those who come forward with disclosures regarding wrongdoing.
The Minister gazetted the Bill on April 9, 2026, intending to repeal and replace the existing Protected Disclosures Act of 2000, which has been heavily criticised for its inadequacies. However, civil society groups highlight a pressing need for extended public consultation, citing limited time for widespread consultation and awareness, and several critical gaps within the Bill that need to be addressed before proceeding.
At a media briefing held at the Section 27 offices in Braamfontein, prominent voices, including former South African Airways whistleblower Cynthia Stimpel, shared harrowing testimonies about the consequences faced by whistleblowers.
Stimpel described the "journey of loss" experienced by those who expose wrongdoing, emphasising that the repercussions often extend far beyond job loss.
"It's their mental health. It's their physical health. Many people can attest to their face breaking out or...
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