Johannesburg – The fight against crime and corruption in Gauteng has been stepped up with the recent announcement that government officials working in supply chain and finance will be subjected to lifestyle audits.
In a statement issued to The Bulrushes on Sunday (2 March 2025), the Gauteng Provincial Government affirmed its commitment to transparency and ethical governance by implementing comprehensive lifestyle audits for all officials engaged in Supply Chain Management and financial capacities.
This initiative aligns with Gauteng Premier Panyaza Lesufi’s commitment made during his 2023 State of the Province Address to “strengthen accountability and combat corruption” within the provincial government.
“The Special Investigating Unit will conduct the lifestyle audits in accordance with a Secondment Agreement established with the Office of the Premier in 2023,” the statement noted.
“This agreement highlights the provincial government’s firm resolve against financial impropriety and misconduct within its various departments and agencies.”
The initiative will focus on officials who are directly responsible for procurement and financial decision-making across all Gauteng Provincial Government (GPG) departments and entities.
“This initiative reinforces our devotion to ethical governance and accountability,” Premier Lesufi commented.
“By taking proactive measures to address corruption, we are fostering a culture of transparency and responsible leadership within the Gauteng Provincial Government.
“Trust from the public in government institutions is paramount, and these lifestyle audits will be crucial in restoring and upholding that trust.”
The implementation of the lifestyle audit process will occur in phases.
“To set an example of ethical leadership and accountability, the initial phase will involve lifestyle audits for the Premier and Members of the Executive,” the statement elucidated.
“The subsequent phase will focus on accounting officers (Heads of Departments and CEOs) across GPG departments and entities.
“This initiative represents a critical step toward safeguarding public resources, promoting good governance, and ensuring that government officials operate within ethical and legal frameworks.”
The Gauteng Provincial Government remains resolute in its battle against corruption and will continue to implement strategies that bolster integrity, efficiency, and accountability.
