Trade, Industry, and Competition Minister Parks Tau has robustly defended the awarding of the fourth National Lottery and Sports Pools licence to Sizekhaya Holdings, dismissing allegations of irregularities amid mounting criticism and legal challenges.
Announced on May 28, 2025, the licence award has come under intense scrutiny over alleged political ties between Sizekhaya shareholders and senior government figures, notably Deputy President Paul Mashatile. Opposition parties including the Democratic Alliance (DA) and Economic Freedom Fighters (EFF) have questioned the fairness and transparency of the selection process.
⚖️ Legal Challenge and Opposition Outcry
Lekalinga (RF) Pty Ltd, a losing bidder, has launched a court application seeking to have the licence award reviewed, citing procedural flaws and demanding greater accountability.
Despite this pressure, Minister Tau maintained that the process was transparent, rigorous, and compliant with all legal requirements. “The licensing process was conducted with integrity, and all applicants were evaluated fairly,” Tau asserted, pledging further investigations to uphold public trust.
🔄 Temporary Licence Extension Explained
Tau also addressed concerns surrounding the 12-month extension granted to current operator Ithuba Holdings, which faced a recent court ruling deeming the extension unconstitutional. He described the move as a necessary measure to ensure uninterrupted lottery operations during the transition period.
🔍 Commitment to Integrity Amid Scrutiny
As legal battles loom, Minister Tau’s unwavering stance highlights his dedication to safeguarding the integrity of the lottery licensing process, even as calls for enhanced transparency and scrutiny continue to intensify.
