Auditor-General Tsakani Maluleke has reported concerning declines in the financial health and service delivery of South Africa's eight largest municipalities, highlighting the need for immediate action to address these issues.

Auditor-general Tsakani Maluleke has expressed concern over 'regressions' in the audit outcomes of South Africa's eight metropolitan municipalities, highlighting issues related to weak financial discipline and failures in service delivery. These findings indicate a decline in the management and accountability of public resources within these urban areas.

According to The Citizen, Auditor-General Maluleke has raised concerns over the financial audits of all metropolitan municipalities, highlighting R62.12 billion in debt write-offs and R1.61 billion spent on consultants. Despite these expenditures, 61% of the municipalities submitted flawed financial statements, prompting alarm ahead of the upcoming elections.

According to Sowetan, South Africa's major cities are struggling with financial management, as highlighted by auditor-general Tsakani Maluleke. She warns that deteriorating governance, failing service delivery, and significant losses due to irregular expenditure pose a threat to the country's sustainability.

According to a report by the Auditor-General of South Africa, only 39 municipalities received clean audits. Sharrone Adams, head of audit, highlighted issues at the metro level, stating that officials often do not behave ethically, experience conflicts of interest, and fail to act in the best interest of their institutions.

The City of Johannesburg has decided to write off approximately R918 million in historical irregular and unauthorized expenditures, which has led to a debate among councillors regarding governance and accountability. Leaders from ActionSA and the DA have raised concerns about financial mismanagement, while the ANC defends the decision as a necessary measure to address past issues.