Minnie Dlamini Repays R50k to NLC Following SIU Investigation

Key Takeaways

• Minnie Dlamini repaid R50,000 she irregularly received from an NPO funded by the National Lotteries Commission
• The payment was part of a settlement agreement with the Special Investigating Unit (SIU) following an investigation into misappropriation of NLC grant funding
• The Mshandukani Foundation NPO received R24.8m from the NLC for the 2016 Rio Olympic Games roadshow, but the funds were not used for their intended purpose
• The SIU continues to pursue civil and criminal action against individuals and entities implicated in the broader scheme

Introduction to the Investigation
The Special Investigating Unit (SIU) has recently announced that media personality Minnie Dlamini has repaid R50,000 that she irregularly received from an NPO funded by the National Lotteries Commission. This payment follows a successful settlement agreement between Dlamini and the SIU, which has been investigating the misappropriation of NLC grant funding. According to SIU spokesperson Kaizer Kganyago, Dlamini received the money in 2016 from the Mshandukani Foundation, an NPO that was funded through an NLC grant intended for the 2016 Rio Olympic Games roadshow.

The Misappropriation of Funds
The SIU investigation revealed that the Mshandukani Foundation NPO, acting as a conduit applicant through the South African Sports Confederation and Olympic Committee (Sascoc), received approximately R24.8m from the NLC. However, these funds were not used for their intended purpose and were instead distributed to several beneficiaries, including Dlamini, without lawful justification or in contravention of the grant agreement. Kganyago stated that Dlamini has fully co-operated with the SIU investigation and acknowledged that the funds were not lawfully due to her. This acknowledgment and subsequent repayment demonstrate Dlamini’s commitment to resolving the matter and ensuring that the misappropriated funds are recovered.

The Broader Efforts to Recover Misappropriated Funds
The repayment of the R50,000 by Dlamini is part of the SIU’s broader efforts to recover misappropriated public funds and hold all recipients of irregular payments accountable, regardless of the amount involved. The SIU is committed to pursuing civil and criminal action against individuals and entities implicated in the broader scheme, including former NLC officials, board members, and other recipients of irregular payments. This approach demonstrates the SIU’s dedication to ensuring that those responsible for the misappropriation of public funds are held accountable and that the public interest is protected.

The Ongoing Investigation and Future Actions
The SIU continues to investigate the misappropriation of NLC grant funding and will pursue further action against those implicated in the scheme. Kganyago stated that the SIU will not hesitate to take action against individuals and entities that have received irregular payments, regardless of their status or position. This approach sends a strong message that the misappropriation of public funds will not be tolerated and that those responsible will face the consequences of their actions. As the investigation continues, it is likely that further details will emerge, and additional individuals and entities may be implicated.

Conclusion and Final Thoughts
In conclusion, the repayment of the R50,000 by Minnie Dlamini is a positive step towards recovering misappropriated public funds and ensuring that those responsible are held accountable. The SIU’s efforts to investigate and prosecute those implicated in the scheme demonstrate a commitment to protecting the public interest and ensuring that public funds are used for their intended purpose. As the investigation continues, it is essential to remain vigilant and ensure that those responsible for the misappropriation of public funds are brought to justice. The actions of the SIU and the cooperation of individuals like Dlamini are crucial in maintaining public trust and ensuring that public funds are used to benefit the community, rather than being diverted for personal gain.