The conference entered its second day, after beginning on 11 August, and tackled the role of governance in the internal auditing industry.
Madonsela was part of the panel, which hosted a discussion on the Key to Governance, and began by praising the efforts of conferences such as the one hosted.
“I think that the aim of the conference is great because of the timing; especially now with the implementing of the National Development Plan by the government,” she said.
She continued on to raise critical questions such as those relating to the critical role played by auditors in the country.
She highlighted that often, there were problems experienced by auditors when it came to truth telling and called for courage on the part of internal auditors.
Madonsela compared the role the auditing industry plays to that of the public protector’s, calling it an integrity system within society.
Venete Klein, chief executive of Kleininc Management Consultants, was also a part of the panel and echoed Madonsela’s sentiments, calling for courage and bravery in the auditing industry.
“South Africa needs more people like Thuli, people who are courageous and not afraid to ask difficult questions,” she said.
The panel also included Michael Sassa, the accountant-general for the National Treasury.
The conference was organised by the Institute of Internal Auditors South Africa and featured an array of speakers, including Finance Minister Nhlanhla Nene, the chief executive officer for Transnet, Brian Molefe, and renowned journalist, Justice Malala.
The conference was scheduled for three days, and will run until 13 August. The Institute of Internal Auditors South Africa is part of an international network representing the interests of internal auditors across the globe.