Eastern Cape Premier, Phumulo Masualle, has expressed shock at the damage caused by the fire at the Head Office of the Administration arm of the provincial government.
Masualle conducted his first site visit on Monday to the building where the fire broke out on Friday afternoon.
Bhisho government spokesperson, Sonwabo Mbananga, said the office housed documents that "are part of an inquiry possible irregularities in procurement by government going back to 2010".
"Personnel working at the OTP discovered a fire at about 14h30 and quickly alerted other colleagues. The entire building was evacuated quickly and safely soon thereafter," Mbananga said.
He said the Premier was grateful that no staff members were hurt.
"Fire-fighters, the SAPS as well as emergency services were quick to arrive at the scene, government commends their prompt reaction and assistance," Mbananga said
He added that they were "not at liberty" to make the suspected reason for the fire known "as it is an ongoing investigation".
Mbananga said since the building was a potential crime scene, senior managers have been moved to other government building to continue working while the rest of the staff will return to work once it is safe.
"An impact assessment on in particular government programs and service delivery systems is also underway. Premier Masualle wishes to reiterate to the citizens of the Eastern Cape and South Africa at large that the provincial government remains fully functional," Mbananga concluded.
