Sizekhaya Holdings rejects allegations of political favouritism in lottery licence victory
Sizekhaya Holdings has moved swiftly to dismiss allegations that its recent success in securing South Africa’s national lottery licence was the product of political connections rather than merit. The company argues that the bidding process was open and competitive, emphasising its experience in the gaming industry and the strength of its proposal as decisive factors in the National Lotteries Commission’s choice.
Moses Tembe, chairperson of Sizekhaya Holdings, underlined that transparency guided every stage of the bidding process. He stressed that no political figure, including Deputy President Paul Mashatile had any financial stake in the consortium’s application, describing accusations to the contrary as “unfounded” and a distraction from the substantive merits of their submission.
Shareholding structure laid bare
Much of the controversy stems from the involvement of Mashatile’s sister-in-law, Advocate Khumo Bogatsu, who is associated with . Critics claimed her presence suggested undue influence. Tembe countered these claims by publicly detailing the consortium’s ownership breakdown and the limited role played by Bogatsu and her related entities.
“We are of the view that it is in the public interest to state that Bellamont Gaming, in which Adv Khumo Bogatsu and I are directors, holds one of the smallest stakes, totalling 7%, in Sizekhaya. Adv Bogatsu owns 2%, and Bellamont Investments owns 5%,” Tembe stated.
He further explained the rationale for inviting Bogatsu to participate in the consortium: “I invited Adv Bogatsu on the strength of her qualifications and much-needed experience required to navigate the legal complexities of the industry to join me in taking a stake in Sizekhaya. This led to the formation of Bellamont Gaming, as a subsidiary of , which has been in business for years.”
Parliamentary scrutiny and ministerial probe
Opposition parties have called for an investigation into the licence award, urging Parliament to ascertain whether political interference played any role. In response, the Minister of Trade and Industry has confirmed that they will launch an inquiry, signalling the government’s intent to address public concerns swiftly.
Sizekhaya’s leadership says it is not troubled by the looming investigation. Instead, Tembe argues, a transparent probe offers an opportunity to showcase the consortium’s genuine capabilities and reinforce confidence in the national lottery’s new custodians.
Company welcomes official investigation
Tembe has repeatedly voiced his support for the ministerial review, asserting that both he and Advocate Bogatsu acted entirely within the bounds of ethics and law throughout the bidding process. “We, therefore, welcome the Minister of Trade Industry and Competition Parks Tau’s commitment to investigate any perceived conflicts as Sizekhaya has done absolutely nothing wrong,” Tembe added.
He also maintained that Bogatsu’s family relationship with the deputy president does not disqualify her from lawful business undertakings. According to Tembe, the focus should remain on how Sizekhaya plans to enhance the lottery’s contributions to public welfare, good causes, and improved player experiences.
Clarification on recent France trip
Further questions were raised after it emerged that Tembe travelled to France during the period surrounding the licence decision. Addressing speculation, he explained that his visit was at the invitation of South Africa’s ambassador to France, Nathi Mthethwa and that he attended in his capacity as a business leader. Tembe noted that other prominent South African business figures—including shareholders from competing lottery bidders were also present, contradicting insinuations that the trip had any link to influencing the licence outcome.
Sizekhaya’s future
Sizekhaya Holdings insists it is prepared to cooperate fully with government investigators and stands by the integrity of its bid. Company executives argue that a successful, transparent conclusion will enable them to focus on expanding the lottery’s reach, maximising returns for good causes, and ensuring a fair and engaging gaming environment for South Africans.
While political parties pursue clarity, Sizekhaya remains firm that its victory was achieved on merit. The consortium hopes that a prompt investigation will dispel doubts, allowing the new licence period to begin on a foundation of trust and accountability.
