CDE’s Ann Bernstein discusses a report detailing a “crime council ecosystem” in Johannesburg, where political, business, and criminal interests profit from municipal dysfunction. She explains how a lack of professional expertise on the boards of City Power, Joburg Water, and the property company allows for corrupt subcontracting and inflated costs. Bernstein recommends merit-based appointments, radical transparency regarding the life cycle of contracts, and the protection of independent internal investigators.