Ramaphosa to conduct ‘lifestyle audits’ in purge

SOUTH AFRICA’S new president said last night that he planned to screen the lifestyles of future government officials as part of his pledge to fight corruption.

As he mulled the make-up of a new cabinet, Cyril Ramaphosa, who was sworn in after Jacob Zuma, his scandalplagued predecessor, reluctantly resigned, told parliament he was working on a new government team. It was unclear whether this heralded a purge of Zuma cronies from the cabinet.

Mr Zuma resigned after nine years in office blighted by corruption, economic mismanagement and controversial appointments which tarnished the country. Pledging last Friday to “turn the tide of corruption” in public life, Mr Ramaphosa said he would conduct “lifestyle audits” of public representatives, checking if they were living lavishly and beyond their normal means.

Tax hikes, including VAT rises, may be announced to help plug a 50.8 billion rand shortfall in the economy.