The National Treasury reports that from the 2020/2021 financial year to date, the Free State has accumulated over R1.6 billion in unspent conditional grants.
The Treasury explained that when money is returned to its coffers, it means the services those funds were meant to cover are not being delivered.
Free State MEC of Finance, Ketso Makume, has expressed concerns about the lack of consequence management and the failure of municipalities to implement the Auditor General's recommendations.
Makume stated, "It's problematic when there is no accountability. We need to address the issues pointed out by the MPAC Municipal Public Accounts Committees or the internal auditors regarding gaps in management systems and financial controls.
He added, "If we don't address these issues, the audit outcomes will continue to be unfavorable. It's essential to deal with these matters and implement an audit action plan."
