PAC raises concerns over counterfeit medicines, expired drugs
Mpho Mokwape | Tuesday June 16, 2026 11:21
Lucas made the remarks while giving an overview during a meeting in which the Office of the Ombudsman appeared before a Parliamentary committee to account for its operations.
He said Parliament remains concerned about weaknesses in financial controls across government institutions, as reflected in audit findings and reports presented over the years.
According to Lucas, the PAC is currently examining the 2022/23 government accounts, but the committee remains about three years behind in its oversight work. He said the delay makes it difficult to promptly address issues identified in government spending and financial management.
In his opening remarks, Lucas highlighted what he described as a worrying trend of qualified audit opinions issued by the Office of the Auditor General for eight consecutive years.
He said the repeated qualified opinions indicate that government accounts continue to have significant shortcomings, preventing auditors from giving a clean bill of health.
“It is worrisome that for eight years, government accounts have received qualified audit opinions. This means there are areas where government funds are not being properly accounted for, and that should concern all of us,' Lucas said.
He stressed that public funds must be managed with the highest level of transparency and accountability, noting that taxpayers expect government resources to be used efficiently and for their intended purposes.
Lucas also pointed to a number of financial leakages that continue to affect government finances. Among them, he cited salary overpayments, which have repeatedly appeared in audit reports and continue to result in losses to the public purse.
Another major concern, he said, is the amount of expired medicines found within the public health system. Lucas revealed that medicines worth approximately P95 million expired in 2023, raising questions about procurement planning, stock management, and distribution systems within health facilities.
“The loss of medicines valued at about P95 million is a serious matter. At a time when resources are limited and healthcare needs remain high, such losses should not be happening,' he said.
He further noted that the government has also been affected by counterfeit medicines valued at an estimated P60 million. Lucas said the issue not only represents a financial loss but also poses potential risks to public health and patient safety.
The PAC chairperson said Parliament will continue to scrutinise government accounts and demand answers from ministries, departments, and agencies where weaknesses are identified.
He emphasised that accountability institutions play an important role in ensuring that public resources are protected and used effectively. Lucas called on all government entities to strengthen internal controls, improve record-keeping, and ensure compliance with financial regulations.
He said that addressing recurring audit findings should be a priority if the government is to improve public confidence in the management of state resources.
As the committee continues its examination of government accounts, Lucas said there is an urgent need for corrective action to prevent further losses and ensure that public funds deliver value to citizens.