Johannesburg – The Democratic Alliance (DA) says it is appalled by Trade, Industry, and Competition Minister Parks Tau’s failure to provide clear answers in Parliament regarding alleged conflicts of interest in the appointment of the new National Lottery operator, Sizekhaya Holdings.
Commenting on the matter on Tuesday, 24 June 2025, Toby Chance MP, DA Spokesperson on Trade, Industry, and Competition, stated: “Minister Tau’s lack of awareness regarding potential links between Deputy President Paul Mashatile’s family and shareholders in Bellamont Gaming is unacceptable.
“His duty was to ensure a fair, transparent process free from conflicts of interest.”
Chance said Minister Tau’s evasive responses during the committee hearing raise serious concerns about the legitimacy of the adjudication process.
Recent media reports revealed that Deputy President Mashatile’s sister-in-law holds a significant role in Sizekhaya Holdings.
“If true, this suggests either deliberate oversight or gross negligence in due diligence,” said Chance.
“The DA demands Minister Tau immediately release the names of all bid evaluation panel members and the Request for Proposal (RFP) documents to ensure transparency.”
Already under a cloud, the National Lotteries Commission (NLC) is under investigation by the Special Investigating Unit for alleged corruption involving more than R1 billion.
The DA warned against allowing the fourth lottery licence to follow the same path of mismanagement and cronyism.
“The state capture playbook involved indirect control through family and friends,” Chance stated.
“If Minister Tau did not enforce strict conflict checks, the entire bid process is compromised.”
Chance said the DA will pursue all avenues to uncover the truth behind allegations of a conflict of interest and ensure accountability in this lucrative state tender.
*This article first appeared in our sister publication techfinancials.co.za
