Make lifestyle audits public if you have nothing to hide, DA dares Lesufi

The Democratic Alliance (DA) in Gauteng has demanded that Premier Panyaza Lesufi release the results of recently completed lifestyle audits, if he is serious about tackling corruption within the province.

This demand follows Lesufi’s remarks during his recent State of the Province Address (SOPA), where he said lifestyle audits for all heads of departments and CEOs of Gauteng provincial government agencies had been finalised.

DA demands accountability

Lesufi disclosed that he had received a report from the Special Investigating Unit (SIU) and plans to meet with the SIU to receive a full briefing on the matter. The DA, however, insists that the public has a right to know the outcomes of these audits.

“If Premier Lesufi has nothing to hide or is not shielding anyone, he must do the right thing and make the lifestyle audits public,” the DA stated.

The party argues that repeated delays in releasing audit results hinder economic growth in the province. Investors need assurance that the Gauteng government is committed to transparency and creating a favourable environment for business and job creation.

The DA’s statement added: “Enough with delays, as this will hamper the growth of this province’s economy.”

Questioning MEC Integrity

Beyond transparency, the DA also demands clarity on actions to be taken against any MECs or officials found living beyond their means.

“We cannot have a situation where officials and MECs, despite not passing the lifestyle audit, are kept in their positions because of cadre deployment,” the DA asserted.

They emphasise the importance of public accountability and argue that officials unfit for their roles should be removed to restore public confidence.

The DA also called for the performance agreements of MECs to be made public, allowing citizens to hold these officials accountable for their duties. In a pointed critique of the current administration, the DA claims that under its governance, regular lifestyle audits would be conducted, with the results made available to the public.

“By doing so, the residents of this province will receive the service delivery they deserve,” the DA declared.

According to SABC News, speaking at the SOPA Premier Lesufi emphasised that the report from the SIU would be made public.

“I will brief the people of Gauteng further on this report, and we are prepared to also release the report,” he stated.

As pressure mounts, The South African attempted to reach out to Lesufi’s spokesperson for comment, but there was no response at the time of publishing.

Will Premier Lesufi act on his promise of accountability and release the audit results?

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