The Democratic Alliance (DA) has called for a nationwide audit of government-owned residential properties to determine whether public officials are unlawfully occupying state housing.

In a letter to Public Works and Infrastructure Minister Dean Macpherson, the party requested a full investigation into who is currently living in state-owned residences and whether they are legally entitled to do so.

According to the DA, the audit should cover officials and officeholders across all three spheres of government. This includes members of the military, politicians, the judiciary, employees of state entities and state-owned enterprises, as well as family members of officials who may be residing in these properties.

The party argues that such a review is necessary to uncover possible abuse of state assets and ensure that government properties are being used lawfully.

Judge Thulare's controversy

The call follows controversy involving Judge Daniel Thulare, who was reportedly occupying a state-owned house and was served with a notice to vacate the property. The judge allegedly argued in response that other judges may also be living in state residences.

The DA says this defence raises concerns about whether the issue could be more widespread than previously believed.

The party believes a comprehensive audit would help determine whether public officials are taking advantage of government housing without proper authorisation.

DA wants better property management

If misuse of state property is uncovered, the DA says those involved should face consequences and that the properties should instead be managed properly.

The party added that the government’s property portfolio could potentially be used to generate revenue for the state if managed effectively, rather than being unlawfully occupied by individuals in positions of power.

The DA says it now awaits action from Minister Macpherson on its request for a full-scale audit.