SASCOC notes with concern that several media reports have incorrectly stated that the organisation has been ordered to repay the full grant amount of R24.98 million. This interpretation does not accurately reflect the findings of the judgment delivered by the Special Tribunal.
While the Tribunal reviewed and set aside the original grant awarded by the National Lotteries Commission in 2016, the order specifically found that SASCOC and its former Chief Financial Officer, Mr Vinesh Maharaj, are jointly and severally liable for an amount of R150,000, representing an administrative fee retained by SASCOC in relation to the grant. The Tribunal further found that SASCOC had not derived any substantive benefit from the grant beyond this amount. The judgment expressly states that SASCOC and Mr Maharaj are required to repay the amount of R150,000 to the National Lotteries Commission. SASCOC can confirm that the amount of R150,000 has been paid in full.
The Tribunal acknowledged that SASCOC’s involvement in the matter was limited to facilitating the funding application process and that SASCOC did not receive or retain the balance of the funds in question.
Accordingly, assertions that SASCOC has been ordered to repay R24.98-million are factually incorrect and misrepresent the contents of the judgment.
SASCOC remains committed to transparency, accountability and good governance. The organisation has cooperated fully with all investigations relating to this matter and will continue to uphold the highest standards of governance and compliance.
SASCOC calls on media organisations and commentators to accurately reflect the findings of the judgment and to correct any reports suggesting that SASCOC has been ordered to repay R24.98-million.