Arts and culture director general Sibusiso Xaba has been suspended, Minister Nathi Mthethwa said on Wednesday.
A forensic investigation on irregular expenditure and non-adherance 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.
Arts and culture DG suspended
Arts and culture director general Sibusiso Xaba has been suspended, Minister Nathi Mthethwa said on Wednesday.
A forensic investigation on irregular expenditure and non-adherance 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.