The Government Communication and Information System (GCIS) has welcomed the sentencing of former African National Congress Member of Parliament Vincent Smith, praising the Judicial Commission of Inquiry into Allegations of State Capture, led by Deputy Chief Justice Raymond Zondo.

Smith, the first person to be sentenced for State capture fraud and corruption, was given a seven-year prison sentence by the Johannesburg High Court, relating to kickbacks from facilities management company Bosasa.

Smith pleaded guilty to charges including contravention of the Prevention and Combating of Corrupt Activities Act and the Income Tax Act.

The sentencing followed recommendations of the Judicial Commission of Inquiry into Allegations of State Capture, which investigated widespread corruption and fraud during the Presidency of Jacob Zuma.

Acting GCIS spokesperson Nomonde Mnukwa said the commission played a critical role in uncovering wrongdoing and recommending institutional reforms to strengthen accountability and rebuild public trust.

She said implementing the recommendations of the Zondo Commission, and other commissions of inquiry, was a key part of strengthening democratic institutions and restoring integrity in government.

“Government places ethical governance and the rule of law at the centre of building a capable and developmental State. Commissions of inquiry are therefore vital instruments to enable government to expose wrongdoing, recommend reforms and ensure that justice is ultimately served,” said Mnukwa.

Mnukwa further pointed out that Smith’s sentencing also reflected government’s commitment to intensify the fight against corruption and ensure that those who abuse public resources were held accountable.

“The implementation of the recommendations of the Judicial Commission of Inquiry into Allegations of State Capture, together with the commitments outlined in the 2026 State of the Nation Address demonstrates government’s determination to strengthen accountability, rebuild public trust and ensure that public resources are used to advance the development and well-being of all South Africans,” she stated.

Government reiterated that no one is above the law and that the country’s democratic institutions "remain resolute" in the fight against corruption.