Tembe: Bid Succeeded on Merit, Not Connections
In a strongly worded statement, Tembe rejected media speculation suggesting that Sizekhaya secured the national lottery licence due to political patronage or professional relationships. He credited the award to the consortium’s experience in the gaming sector, financial strength, and operational transparency.
“We have noted with utter dismay the growing and unfounded speculation in various media platforms that Sizekhaya was awarded the fourth national lottery licence because of political patronage and professional connections,” Tembe said.
“We have indicated previously that Sizekhaya won the right to operate the fourth national lottery licence because of the strength of our bid, the deep knowledge of gaming that we bring to the table, our pledge to propel the lottery to new heights by generating more money for the government, for good causes and for players, and our commitment to handing over the IP to the government to run the lottery themselves if they so desire.”
Government Affirms Competitive Process
Trade, Industry and Competition Minister Parks Tau defended the licence award process in a recent parliamentary briefing. He told the portfolio committee that the selection of the national lotteries operator followed a structured, multi-stage procedure designed to ensure integrity and oversight.
“This process ensures necessary checks and balances are in place for the appointment of the national lotteries operator… The request for proposals for the fourth operator was issued and eight applications were received,” Tau said.
Despite assurances from both Tembe and Minister Tau, controversy has grown following revelations that Advocate Khumo Bogatsu, who is married to Deputy President Paul Mashatile, holds a directorship and minor shareholding in Bellamont Gaming—a company with a stake in Sizekhaya.
Tembe sought to clarify Bogatsu’s role, asserting that her participation was based solely on her legal qualifications.
“Neither the Deputy President nor any other political entity or individual has a financial interest, direct or indirect in our bid. Neither Bellamont Gaming nor Sizekhaya ever discussed our bid with the Deputy President”, he said.
Addressing concerns about ownership concentration, Tembe also pushed back against claims that he and businessman Sandile Zungu are the dominant stakeholders in Sizekhaya. He described the group as a broad-based consortium with diverse participants.
“The narrative that Mr Sandile Zungu and I are controlling shareholders is unfounded,” he stated.