SABC Scandal: Execs Ordered to Repay R18 Million! 👀
Johannesburg – In a significant victory for the Special Investigating Unit (SIU), three former South African Broadcasting Corporation (SABC) executives have been ordered to repay over R11.5 million in unlawful “success payments” made to Hlaudi Motsoeneng nearly a decade ago. The total, including interest, now amounts to approximately R18 million.
Judge Allyson Crutchfield of the Johannesburg High Court ruled last week that Mbulaheni Obert Maguvhe, Ndivhoniswani Aaron Tshidzumba, and Maleshane Audrey Raphela are jointly responsible for repaying the funds. This decision follows Motsoeneng's unsuccessful final appeal in the Constitutional Court, effectively ending his legal avenues to avoid repayment.
The case highlights past mismanagement and potentially corrupt practices within the SABC, where substantial payouts were authorized without due diligence, ultimately depleting public funds. The SIU's investigation revealed that the executives approved these “success payments” in September 2016, falsely claiming Motsoeneng had generated over R1 billion in revenue for the SABC in his role as chief operating officer.
The SIU challenged the legality of the payouts, leading to a protracted legal battle. Motsoeneng's appeals to the Supreme Court of Appeal and the Constitutional Court were both rejected. The High Court ruling underscores the importance of accountability within state-owned entities and the SIU's commitment to recovering funds lost through improper conduct.
This ruling is a crucial step in addressing the legacy of state capture and sends a clear message that those responsible for mismanaging public resources will be held accountable. The SIU's ongoing efforts to recover misappropriated funds are vital for restoring public trust and ensuring responsible governance.
What's Next?
The former executives are now legally obligated to repay the R18 million. The SIU will likely pursue legal means to ensure the funds are recovered. This case could potentially set a precedent for future investigations into similar instances of financial mismanagement within state-owned enterprises.
Key Takeaways:
- Former SABC execs must repay R18 million in unlawful payments.
- Hlaudi Motsoeneng's appeals were rejected by the highest courts.
- The SIU continues its fight against state capture and corruption.