The report reveals that almost 40% of senior provincial government officials have failed their mandatory lifestyle audits, designed to expose corruption and financial misconduct. In addition, more than 150 officials have been found to be engaging in illegal business dealings with the state, despite the legal prohibition on public servants conducting business with the government. This includes securing tenders and contracts.

Key departments under scrutiny include Education, Sport, Health, and Infrastructure Development.

Vuyo Mhaga, Spokesperson for the Gauteng government, confirmed that the provincial administration is committed to addressing the issues raised by the Ethics Advisory Council, which was led by prominent figures like Dr Terence Nombembe, Advocate Thuli Madonsela, and Zola Majavu. These independent leaders are well known for their ongoing efforts to combat corruption in SA.

"This is the second report from the council. The first involved lifestyle audits of the Premier, MECs, and Heads of Department, and we extended the review to include supply chain management as well," Mhaga said in a recorded statement.

--ChannelAfrica--