DG vs Minister Over Audit Row | Johannesburg News

Tensions explode in South Africa’s Department of Basic Education as Minister Siviwe Gwarube clashes with Director-General Mathanzima Mweli over a refusal to undergo a mandatory lifestyle audit by the SIU. The fallout stems from Gwarube’s scrutiny of a R11 billion nutrition program and a R1.6 billion textbook tender involving an unqualified supplier. While Gwarube demands the tender be halted and a forensic probe launched, Mweli insists it proceed — even sending a lawyer’s letter asserting his right to privacy and arguing the audit isn’t contractual. Despite President Ramaphosa’s 2021 directive making audits compulsory for senior officials — and all others complying — Mweli claims he needs confidential, ethical procedures before cooperating. The ANC warns of departmental instability, accusing Gwarube of political interference, while the DA urges the president to act or empower the minister to hold Mweli accountable. Listen in comfort:Get a discount on a Soli Pillow: http://solipillow.com/discount/dnn. Advertise on DNN:[email protected] This is an automated, high-level news summary based on public reporting.Report issues to [email protected]. View sources & latest updates:https://sources.thednn.ai/bbdc966f6d2e7c32