Arts and culture DG suspended

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-adherence 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.