Makhudu Sefara Responds to SIU Allegations

What the SIU Said

The Special Investigation Unit (SIU) released a statement on Tuesday accusing Makhudu Sefara and others of misusing money from the National Lotteries Commission (NLC). According to the SIU, a grant of R1.5 million given in 2018 to the Todi Media Development Foundation was meant to fund a media‑training workshop for community journalists. Investigators claim a large part of that money was diverted for personal gain.

Sefara’s Side of the Story

How the Workshop Came About

Sefara says he was asked by Daniel Makwela to help organise a training session for community‑media workers. He explains that his company, Unscripted Communication, received R550 000 from the grant to cover costs such as venue hire, accommodation, transport, food and equipment.

Details of the Event

The workshop took place on 10 December 2018 at the Birchwood Hotel, close to OR Tambo International Airport. More than 50 participants from print and radio community‑media outlets attended. Sefara says he has pictures, receipts and booking confirmations to prove the event happened and that all expenses were paid through legitimate channels.

Who Was Involved?

A deputy director from the Government Communication and Information System (GCIS) spoke at the workshop, and Sefara personally moderated the proceedings as part of his company’s services.

Why He Denies the Allegations

Sefara calls the claim that money was pocketed “false and harmful.” He argues that if his company is blamed for receiving funds for organising the event, then the hotel, airline and bus companies that also got paid for accommodation and transport should be equally liable.

He adds that the SIU could have contacted him directly for clarification instead of releasing a statement that, in his view, seeks publicity rather than truth.

Reactions from His Employers

SANEF’s Decision

The South African National Editors’ Forum (SANEF) held an emergency Management Committee meeting on Tuesday. After hearing Sefara’s explanation, the forum accepted his offer to resign while he prepares a formal response to the allegations. SANEF notes that, in 2018, Sefara was not employed as a journalist or working for SANEF.

Arena Holdings’ Action

Arena Holdings, the publisher of the Sunday Times, placed Sefara on special leave as editor. The company spoke with him, heard his denial, and decided to give him “time and space” to clear his name. To ensure a fair outcome, Arena Holdings has hired an independent investigator to review the matter fully. The results will shape any future decisions about his role.

What Happens Next?

Deputy editor Mike Siluma will act as editor of the Sunday Times while the investigation proceeds. Both SANEF and Arena Holdings say they will wait for the independent review before making any final judgments.

Conclusion

The controversy around the 2018 NLC grant remains unresolved. Makhudu Sefara insists the workshop was legitimate and that all funds were used for their intended purpose. Ongoing investigations by the SIU and an independent reviewer hired by his employer will determine the final outcome. Until then, the situation serves as a reminder of how important transparency and accountability are in handling public funds.