Thuli Madonsela

South African anti-corruption activist whose 'Zuma Must Fall' campaign reshaped national politics and promoted transparency.

Thuli Madonsela, a South African lawyer and anti-corruption advocate, gained global recognition for her fearless investigation into former President Jacob Zuma’s misuse of public funds. As the Public Protector of South Africa from 2009 to 2014, she issued the Nkandla Report, which exposed Zuma’s illegal use of tax money to upgrade his private residence. Her findings led to unprecedented accountability, including Zuma’s resignation in 2018. Madonsela’s approach, rooted in Ubuntu philosophy, emphasizes collective responsibility and moral leadership. Her advocacy for “service delivery justice” has inspired movements like #ZumaMustFall and influenced youth activists in Africa’s #RhodesMustFall campaigns. A former professor at the University of Fort Hare, she co-founded the Nelson Mandela School of Public Governance, training leaders in ethical governance. Her book 《The Courage to Act》 outlines her vision for a society where leaders serve citizens, not themselves. Madonsela remains a vocal critic of corruption in Africa and a mentor to whistleblowers globally, earning accolades such as the TED Prize in 2018. Her work underscores the power of integrity in rebuilding public trust in institutions.