APAC calls for exemplary behaviour by political leadership

A very nice luxury car - and very affordable when you're not using your own money but rather taxpayers' money to buy it.

The Association of Public Accounts Committees (APAC) is grossly disturbed by recent media reports of allegations of blatant disregard of measures that were put forward by Minister Pravin Gordhan to ensure that wastage and extravagance were curbed in the public sector. Minister Gordhan was very clear in urging all involved in the public sector to exercise prudence in dealing with public funds. This, amongst others, included stringent measures when it comes to utilising departmental credit cards, flying in economy class, as well as holding off on all vehicles sales by various state departments, municipalities and entities.

"We further call upon PACs, MPACs and other law enforcement agencies in the provinces to exercise effective oversight and investigate these recent media allegations of political leaders buying lavish cars with state funds. This is to ensure that corrective measures are taken in an event where neglect of the directive by the Minister is proven" says the Secretary of APAC, Hlomane Chauke.

North West Premier Thandi Modise has come in for a great deal of flak after she bought a R1.3m BMW 750i - despite Pravin Gordhan's call for spending on luxury cars, and other spending to be cut. (Image: GCIS)

As APAC, we reiterate the need for effective use of public funds and holding the executive accountable. The association will continue to deliver its mandate without fear or favour.

APAC wishes to urge all those who occupy political leadership positions (ministers, their deputies, premiers, MECs, and mayors and speakers) to act in an exemplary manner in heeding the call by Minister Gordhan to exercise due prudence when spending public funds. APAC further calls upon on Public Accounts Committees and Municipal Public Accounts Committees to leave no stone unturned in their efforts to ensure the ministers, their deputies, ministers, premiers, MECs, and mayors and speakers and their departments, municipalities and entities fully comply with prescripts of minister Gordhan.