Digital Vibes scandal shows need for ‘meaningful’ lifestyle audits, says Outa
The Organisation Undoing Tax Abuse (Outa) says the Special Investigating Unit (SIU) report on the Digital Vibes tender scandal raises heightens concerns over the level of ethics in cabinet.
The report released on Wednesday and highlighted the extent of the Health Department's irregular awarding of tender to the KZN-based company Digital Vibes.
The report indicated that former health minister Zweli Mkhize and some health officials were directly involved in the irregular tender processes.
Outa’s Stefanie Fick says the report raises more questions than answers.
“The damning report not only raises questions about the department and its officials, but also about ethical leadership in cabinet. It is time for an overhaul of the department, as well as meaningful implementation of lifestyle audits and more action by the Asset Forfeiture Unit.
“We have some of the best anti-corruption laws and regulations in the world, but they are of no use to us if the state doesn't use them, and do so effectively.”
Fick says President Cyril Ramaphosa should drive an ethical leadership process for all his cabinet members.
“The time to get rid of unethical ministers and other leaders is long overdue. The Presidency and cabinet must adopt transparent leadership that will give the public the assurance that our ministers and other leaders are acting lawfully and taking extreme care of our taxes.”
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