The Minister of Arts and Culture, Mr Nathi Mthethwa, has announced the suspension of the Director General, Mr Sibusiso Xaba pending a forensic investigation on irregular expenditure and non-adherence to procedure, among other reasons. The DG has been suspended on full pay with immediate effect. The suspension is a precautionary measure and does not in any way constitute a judgement.
This follows the presentation of a qualified audit report by the Auditor-General on the Department of Arts and Culture, identifying weaknesses that include the severity and growth of irregular expenditure, non-adherence to procedures and possible lack of action against officials who made and or permitted irregular expenditure.
The qualified audit report was presented in July this year and covers the 2013/14 financial year ending on 31 March 2014.
“I have decided to take effective and appropriate steps to establish the true facts on this matter. The aim is to avoid possible interference with the investigation or potential witnesses.
“The Auditor-General's latest report is frankly a matter of deep concern as it shows that the department is still largely failing in key areas. I have decided to launch a forensic investigation into these findings. As a result of this, I have taken the appropriate steps to suspend the Director General, Mr Sibusiso Xaba until the investigation has been finalized,” said Minister Mthethwa.
In the meantime, the Minister’s Special Advisor, Mr Vuyo Jack, has been appointed to the position of the Acting Director-General with immediate effect.
For further details:
Sandile Memela
Spokesperson for the Minister
Cell: 082 800 3750
