The Special Investigating Unit (SIU) is investigating the alleged misuse of National Lotteries Commission (NLC) funds by South African jazz musician Selaelo Selota.
The Afro-jazz musician who has inspired millions with his songs is now under fire from fans and activists after it was alleged that he spent public funds extravagantly on a Mercedes-Benz C200 Avantgarde.
The Special Tribunal granted the SIU a preservation order to freeze Selota’s expensive vehicle, which was allegedly bought with funds intended for community improvement projects.
“We are ensuring assets tied to misused funds are secured,” said SIU spokesperson Kaizer Kganyago.
Network of fraud exposed
As part of a larger investigation into R1.4-billion purportedly embezzled from the NLC, a network of fraud involving prominent people and non-profits has been exposed.
Selota is not alone; award-winning actress Terry Pheto also lost her opulent home, which was constructed with R5 million in NLC funds that were appropriated for her family’s benefit from a chicken farm through Zibisibix Non-Profit Company.
Nearly R3-million of the R15-million given to the foundation of “Tsotsi” star Presley Chweneyagae for a musical project went to a travel agency connected to the wife of a former NLC official.
The same farm deal paid R140 000 to fashion designer Thula Sindi, and the scandal also implicated producer Carol Bouwer and kwaito icon Arthur Mafokate.
The findings of the SIU were presented to parliament in February 2024 and exposed “collusion between NLC officials and non-profit organisations”, whereby luxury assets were purchased with money intended for charities.
Selota, renowned for his poignant songs that celebrate South African culture, reportedly received funding for cultural initiatives.
Rather, the SIU alleges that he embezzled a portion of the money for his own benefit.
Probe clouds Selota’s reputation
“We are investigating how these funds were used, and the preservation order ensures assets remain secure,” said the SIU.
Although there are few specifics regarding the grant’s objectives, the accusations have clouded Selota’s reputation.
Reports of grants being abused for opulent purchases like homes and cars have long dogged the NLC.
Numerous well-known individuals have been the focus of the SIU’s ongoing investigations, and Selota’s case highlights the scope of the issue.
This scandal has brought serious concerns regarding oversight in the arts sector.
NLC grants are essential for communities and artists, but exploitation has been encouraged by lax controls.
