Johannesburg - Arts and culture director general Sibusiso Xaba has been suspended, Minister Nathi Mthethwa said on Wednesday.
A forensic investigation on irregular expenditure and non-adherance to procedure would be undertaken, he said in a statement.
This followed a qualified audit report by the Auditor General covering the 2013/2014 financial year.
“The Auditor General's latest report is frankly a matter of deep concern as it shows that the department is still largely failing in key areas,” said Mthethwa.
“I have decided to launch a forensic investigation into these findings. As a result of this, I have taken the appropriate steps to suspend the director general, Mr Sibusiso Xaba, until the investigation has been finalised.”
The minister's special adviser, Vuyo Jack, was appointed acting director.
Sapa