Anti-corruption organizations Corruption Watch and Accountability Now have called for lifestyle audits of public officials to produce tangible outcomes, as concerns grow over unexplained wealth among government representatives. This comes amid public outrage over a leaked video allegedly showing suspended Independent Development Trust (IDT) CEO Tebogo Malaka and spokesperson Phasha Makgolane attempting to bribe a journalist to drop an investigation.
Lifestyle Audits Falling Short
Despite being touted as a key tool in South Africa’s fight against corruption, lifestyle audits have yet to lead to significant prosecutions or asset recoveries. Experts argue that without proper enforcement, these audits remain ineffective.
“Corruption is the cancer that is eating away at South Africa’s democracy and stealing from the poor,” said a spokesperson from Corruption Watch. “The Zondo Commission exposed the extent of graft, but we’re not seeing enough action from law enforcement.”
The case of Malaka, who is reportedly building a R12 million home in an upscale Kenridge estate, highlights the issue. Anti-corruption advocates argue that her salary as a public servant would not justify such expenditure, yet no investigation was launched until the bribery scandal emerged.
Calls for an Independent Anti-Corruption Body
Accountability Now director Paul Hoffman emphasized the need for an independent anti-corruption entity, free from political influence. “We need a specialized body of trained experts who operate independently,” he said. “Without it, we won’t see real change.”
The lack of accountability extends beyond Malaka. Questions have been raised about Public Works Minister Sihle Zikalala’s properties, as well as allegations involving a diamond gift to his wife. Zikalala has denied owning the multimillion-rand homes he declared in Parliament.
A Culture of Impunity
Hoffman warned that South Africa’s “culture of impunity” will persist unless drastic reforms are made to the criminal justice system. “Until we see radical changes, these scandals will continue,” he said.
As pressure mounts, the public awaits concrete steps to ensure lifestyle audits translate into prosecutions—not just empty promises.