By: Lonwabo Mtyeku | Photo Credit: Sourced
Entrepreneur and media personality DJ Sbu has rejected allegations that he personally benefited by R100 million from grant funding linked to the Ekurhuleni Metropolitan Municipality, following claims raised during testimony at the Madlanga Commission of Inquiry.
The claims, aired before the commission, suggested that municipal grant funding may have been improperly diverted for personal enrichment. DJ Sbu, whose legal name is Sibusiso Leope, has categorically denied the allegations, describing them as inaccurate and damaging to his reputation.
“Factually incorrect”
Responding publicly, DJ Sbu said he has never received — nor profited from — the amounts alleged. He maintained that any interactions he may have had with municipal programmes were lawful and aligned with legitimate enterprise development initiatives.
He further emphasised that he has not been charged with any offence and has not been formally implicated by any investigative or law enforcement body.
Commission proceedings
The Madlanga Commission is examining claims of corruption, maladministration and governance failures within the Ekurhuleni municipality, including the administration of grants and public funding mechanisms.
Legal commentators have noted that testimony before a commission does not equate to a finding of wrongdoing. Evidence must still be tested and corroborated before conclusions are drawn or referrals made.
Public attention and due process
Given DJ Sbu’s public profile, the allegations have drawn significant attention. Observers point out that high-profile individuals are often subject to heightened scrutiny during commissions of inquiry, even when allegations remain unproven.
DJ Sbu has reiterated his support for accountability processes, while calling for fairness and respect for due process.
“I am open to scrutiny, but accusations must be based on facts,” he said.
Next steps
The commission is expected to continue hearing evidence from various witnesses before compiling its final report. Should credible evidence of criminal conduct emerge, the matter would be referred to the appropriate authorities.
At this stage, the allegations remain untested, with DJ Sbu firmly denying any personal benefit from the alleged grant funding.
