Discretionary powers could lead to corruption

This according to Auditor General Kimi Makwetu, who has reported a slight improvement in the audit results of national and provincial governments over the past three years.

At a national level, only 30 percent of entities received a clean audit and 15 percent were outstanding, disclaimed or received adverse opinions. 

Only one state-owned entity received a clean audit, while the South African Post Office and the SABC again received qualified audit opinions.

Makwetu says problems include a lack of leadership and instability in key positions. 

"Management's responsiveness to the messages as well as the implementation of the recommendations...we have detected this over time and said this is a slow response. I think we still have elements of slowness, but I think they are starting to disappear, they are starting to become no response in a number of areas. I think there is a need to start focussing on those areas where you do not get action being taken," says Makwetu.