The Gauteng Ethics Advisory Council has revealed that several senior government officials are conducting business with the state, with the education department recording the highest number of implicated individuals. The council has recommended lifestyle audits for Premier Panyaza Lesufi, MECs, and heads of departments to address potential corruption.
A Chairperson confirmed that cases have been referred to the Special Investigating Unit (SIU) and the Hawks for criminal investigation. However, he emphasized that successful prosecutions depend on whistleblowers and witnesses coming forward.
Premier Lesufi welcomed the audits, stating that his administration is also considering rotating officials between departments and implementing stricter monitoring mechanisms. “We look forward to the outcomes so we can take decisive action,” he said.
The council highlighted procurement as a high-risk area for corruption and announced plans to extend ethical scrutiny to municipal governments. Meanwhile, Lesufi noted improvements in the health department, previously seen as a “haven for corrupt individuals.”
The findings underscore the need for systemic investigations to root out corruption in Gauteng’s public sector.
