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The Democratic Alliance (DA) welcomes Premier Dr Zamani Saul's preliminary report on the implementation of lifestyle audits within the Northern Cape provincial government.

However, the DA is deeply concerned that 33 officials reportedly resigned before the lifestyle audit process could be concluded.

If public officials or government employees resign to avoid lifestyle audits, the DA wants to make it clear that resignation does not erase accountability.

Any forensic investigation must continue where there is evidence or reasonable suspicion of corruption, unexplained wealth, fraud or financial misconduct. A resignation must never prevent matters from being referred to the relevant law enforcement agencies, including the Special Investigating Unit (SIU) and the Hawks, for further investigation, asset tracing and, where appropriate, criminal prosecution.

Where wrongdoing is proven through the courts, every cent of public money must be recovered. Officials found guilty should also face appropriate consequences, including being blacklisted from future employment in the public service where legislation permits.

Lifestyle audits are not merely an administrative exercise. They are an important tool to strengthen accountability, protect public resources and restore public confidence in government.

The DA will continue to monitor the implementation of lifestyle audits in the Northern Cape and will insist that no public official is allowed to escape scrutiny simply by resigning before the process is completed.

Issued by Harold McGluwa MPL - DA Northern Cape Provincial Spokesperson on Legislature