Macpherson Orders Nationwide Audit into Over 6,200 Government-Owned Homes
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Public Works Minister Dean Macpherson launches an aggressive probe into 6,238 state properties to root out illegal occupants, uncollected rent, and public officials staying past their entitlement.
Public Works and Infrastructure Minister Dean Macpherson has ordered a comprehensive nationwide investigation into 6,238 state-owned residential properties across South Africa.
The probe aims to uncover widespread corruption, illegal squatting, and uncollected rental revenue tied to government housing allocated to public servants and state officials. Revealing the move following a series of regional property audits, Macpherson stressed that the state asset portfolio has been severely neglected and exploited for years due to weak internal controls and lack of oversight.
The investigation will target state-owned houses and apartments to verify occupant eligibility, determine whether market-related rent is being paid, and identify former government workers or unauthorized individuals unlawfully occupying state property.
Officials found to be occupying homes illegally or defaulting on rental payments face immediate eviction proceedings, salary deductions, and legal action.
Macpherson emphasized that turning the Department of Public Works into an efficient, transparent asset manager is a top priority, and bringing state housing under strict control will generate much-needed revenue while ensuring government resources are not abused.
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