Justice and Constitutional Development Minister Mmamoloko Kubayi has gazetted the Protected Disclosures Bill for public comment, marking a significant step forward in safeguarding individuals who expose wrongdoing in the workplace.
The bill proposes a strengthened framework that ensures whistleblowers have access to secure reporting channels, are shielded from retaliation and receive support throughout the disclosure process.
A notable inclusion in the bill is a financial award for employees who blow the whistle and whose claims are subsequently found to be true.
Where a court convicts an employer of improper conduct under the Act and imposes a monetary sanction, the whistleblower may be eligible for an amount not exceeding one-fourth of that sanction, provided their evidence directly contributed to the conviction.
The bill also proposes up to 15 years in prison for anyone who reveals a whistleblower's identity or retaliates against them. This provision signals a firm legislative stance against those who seek to silence individuals who come forward in the public interest.
Minister Kubayi noted that whistleblowers have historically suffered serious occupational detriment, including suspension, dismissal, delayed benefit payouts, and in tragic cases, loss of life.
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