SANEF chair Makhudu Sefara steps aside over lottery fund allegations

The South African National Editors’ Forum (SANEF) says its chairperson, Makhudu Sefara, has stepped aside following allegations linked to the alleged misappropriation of lottery funds.

In a statement issued on 28 April 2026, SANEF confirmed that its management committee held an urgent meeting where Sefara agreed to step aside while the matter is investigated. The move follows an earlier statement by the Special Investigating Unit (SIU), which raised allegations involving Sefara and others.

According to SANEF, Sefara was given an opportunity to present his version of events and denied the allegations. He then offered to step aside from his leadership role while responding to the claims.

SANEF has accepted his decision and appointed deputy chairperson Tshamano Makhadi as acting chairperson. The organisation also said it will appoint an independent legal team to assess the evidence and report back.

The claims linked to lottery funds reportedly date back to 2018, during a period when SANEF says Sefara was not working as a journalist or involved in the organisation.

At this stage, the allegations have not been proven. This has not been confirmed.

For media professionals across South Africa, including journalists in the Eastern Cape, the development raises questions about leadership stability in one of the country’s most influential media bodies. SANEF plays a key role in defending press freedom, supporting journalists, and shaping newsroom standards that affect local reporting environments.

Any leadership uncertainty at SANEF could have indirect effects on advocacy efforts, training programmes, and support systems used by journalists in smaller or rural newsrooms.

SANEF has not indicated how long the investigation will take but says it will report back as soon as possible.

We will update this story as more information becomes available.