Minister Tau Fails to Clarify Lotto Links to Deputy President Mashatile’s Family
Johannesburg – The Democratic Alliance (DA) has expressed its deep concern regarding Trade, Industry, and Competition Minister Parks Tau’s failure to provide definite answers in Parliament regarding potential conflicts of interest tied to the selection of the new National Lottery operator, Sizekhaya Holdings.
On Tuesday, 24 June 2025, DA Spokesperson on Trade, Industry, and Competition, Toby Chance MP, stated: “Minister Tau’s lack of awareness regarding possible links between Deputy President Paul Mashatile’s family and Bellamont Gaming shareholders is simply unacceptable.”
“He was required to ensure a fair and transparent selection process free from conflicts of interest.”
Chance emphasized that Minister Tau’s vague responses during the committee hearing cast significant doubts on the integrity of the adjudication process.
Recent media reports revealed that Deputy President Mashatile’s sister-in-law occupies a prominent role within Sizekhaya Holdings.
“If this is true, it suggests either a blatant oversight or gross negligence in due diligence,” Chance remarked.
“The DA demands that Minister Tau immediately release the names of all bid evaluation panel members along with the Request for Proposal (RFP) documents to enhance transparency.”
Already under scrutiny, the National Lotteries Commission (NLC) is currently being investigated by the Special Investigating Unit for alleged corruption involving more than R1 billion.
The DA warned against permitting the fourth lottery license to repeat the patterns of mismanagement and cronyism.
“The state capture playbook included indirect control through family and associates,” Chance pointed out.
“If Minister Tau failed to conduct thorough conflict checks, the entire bidding process is at risk.”
Chance reaffirmed that the DA will pursue all avenues to uncover the truth regarding the allegations of conflict of interest and ensure accountability in this valuable government contract.
*This article originally appeared in our sister publication techfinancials.co.za