DA welcomes bold cost-cutting move by KZN’s new Finance MEC, Francois Rodgers

25 June 2024

The DA in KwaZulu-Natal (KZN) welcomes the bold decision by Francois Rodgers - the DA's first Finance MEC in the province - to save taxpayers R5 million during the next five years by closing a secondary treasury office based in Durban.

The closure of the leased offices will save KZN Treasury an estimated R1million annually, money which will be redirected to other strategic service delivery needs.

It is clear that MEC Rodgers means business and that operations will be streamlined. This is good news for the people of KZN. He has wasted no time in showcasing the DA’s commitment to sound financial management by cutting wasteful expenditure and exercising fiscal prudence.

This bold move exemplifies the DA's commitment to the efficient and responsible management of state finances wherever we govern. It is also exactly the kind of tough decision making needed as our province faces a budget deficit of R6 billion. Money can no longer be spent on frivolous items including the renting of unnecessary office spaces.

At the top of the MEC’s priority list is the stabilisation of KZN’s finances, safeguarding the provincial fiscus, eliminating irregular expenditure within government departments, attracting foreign investments and ensuring accountability and transparency.

KZN’s people can expect the DA to continue making smart and impactful decisions which mirror our legacy of good governance.

Issued by Hannah Winkler, DA KZN Legislature Deputy Whip, 25 June 2024