The IFP calls for an urgent investigation into the resignation of a top official in the Kwa Zulu-Natal's Department of Public Works.

IFP Spokesperson on Public Works, Mr Petros Sithole said, "The resignation of Mr Kenneth Khanyile, who was the main link between his head office and the project manager overseeing the upgrade of President Zuma's homestead in Nkandla has raised more questions than answers. The Department of Public Works must truthfully explain the reasons for the resignation of Mr Khanyile."

This comes as controversy has surrounded the upgrading of President Zuma's homestead and the conflicting reports of how much it really costs and how much of that money is funded by the Department of Public Works as it got a disclaimer from the report of the Auditor General. This debacle happened in a situation where the Department is facing the challenge of having Directors General who are acting in their positions, which also raises concerns.

Sithole added, "The truth must also be told about why the costs of the upgrade rose from an estimated R88 million to more that R200 million. If senior members of the department are resigning over the fallout with regards to the money spent on the upgrade, it means that flaws are apparent and those responsible must be brought to book. Hopefully the answers will be gleaned from the investigation that is carried out by the Public Protector into the Nkandla debacle."

The IFP calls for the former Minister of Public Works Geoff Doidge and his successor Gwen Mahlangu-Nkabinde to be investigated on the role they played in the planning and implementation of the upgrade of President Zuma's homestead.