In 2006 I participated in the Ethical Leadership conference, which I learned had grown out of Nelson Mandela’s recognition that our deeply traumatised society needed an “RDP of the soul”.

I recognise that children are born with an innate sense of right and wrong, of what is just and unjust — an innate sense of morality that directs how we are human. The circumstances of life affect this innate sense of morality of individuals, resulting in the need for ethics to be learned and taught in the context of understanding that people are geared for goodness and that it is possible to encourage the formation of South African citizens of good moral character who can serve society as agents of transformation in the places they have influence.

Those who take on responsibilities of leadership are imperfect and will face serious ethical challenges that will require them to make decisions based on fairness and ethical guidelines, rather than on personal, political and financial considerations. Ethical actions must be characterised by respect for others, respect for differences, being trustworthy, being morally aware and demonstrating the behaviour expected of them, with a goal of making the world a more just and decent place.

It has been my privilege to work with whistleblowers, people who have demonstrated immense courage and the conviction of their beliefs in standing for the truth irrespective of the cost. Sadly, they have suffered immense harm in refusing to go along with the...

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