The Democratic Alliance (DA) welcomes the decision by Minister of Public Works and Infrastructure, Dean Macpherson to launch a national audit of all state-owned residential properties managed by his department following reports that some officials may be illegally occupying government residences. This audit is an important step to determine the full extent of irregular occupation and to ensure that public assets are managed responsibly.
Public property must never be treated as a personal entitlement. Where individuals are found to be occupying state residences without authorisation or after their eligibility has expired, decisive action must follow.
The DA supports the issuing of notices to vacate and any necessary legal processes to reclaim these properties and prevent the continued abuse of state resources.
The audit also provides an opportunity to strengthen oversight of the state’s property portfolio and improve transparency around how government residences are allocated and managed. The DA supports all efforts to ensure that state-owned properties are used lawfully and in the interests of the people of South Africa.