eThekwini approves new WhatsApp whistleblower platform
eThekwini's municipal council has accepted a motion to roll out a new whistleblowing platform via WhatsApp.
The Democratic Alliance, which tabled the motion, says that if adopted, the platform will allow residents to anonymously report those breaking bylaws and submit tip-offs.
Councillor Zoe Solomon says a reference number will be sent to the relevant department.
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" Having just a landline where you're trying to report illegal dumpings, illegal occupation, truck infringements from drivers, people who are constantly doing something against the general public and the community, that is a bylaw infringement. It's so important to be able to record that you are making the effort and being proactive to report it."
Solomon says the move is part of a broader push to modernise public engagement with the city, improve service delivery, and promote transparency.
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She says they hope that more people will be encouraged to speak out.
" What happens is you're often asked to write an affidavit and be a witness so that there can be a prosecution. Now, this deters people from reporting. My intention is that you're able to whistleblow, and you don't have to go through that process, that you don't have to say, 'I witnessed this happening’."
The DA says landlines must stay for residents without smartphones or data, especially in emergencies.
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