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The Special Investigating Unit (SIU) has announced a settlement linked to an investigation into National Lotteries Commission (NLC) grant funding.
The update follows a public response from beneficiary and service provider Minenhle “Minnie” Dlamini, who disputes the SIU’s characterisation of the repayment.
This explainer sets out what the SIU says, what Dlamini says, and what the settlement means, based only on the official statements provided.
What the SIU announced
According to the SIU media statement dated 19 December 2025, the unit:
- Concluded a settlement agreement with Ms Dlamini.
- Confirmed the repayment of R50,000, originally paid in 2016.
- Said the funds came from the Mshandukani Foundation NPO, linked to an NLC grant.
- Stated the grant was intended for the 2016 Rio Olympic Games Roadshow.
- Reported that the funds were not used for their intended purpose.
The SIU added that the broader investigation concerns the alleged misappropriation of approximately R24.8 million in NLC funding and that civil and criminal action against other implicated parties is ongoing.
What Minenhle Dlamini says
In her official public statement, Dlamini says:
- She was booked in 2016 as a service provider for a professional engagement.
- The event did not take place, but the booking fee was paid.
- Such fees are non-refundable industry practice when events are cancelled.
- She had no knowledge of the source of the funds used to book her.
- She denies stealing money or being involved in unlawful activity.
She explains that nearly a decade later, she was asked to provide documentation from 2016, which she could not fully locate.
As a result, she chose to repay the R50,000 pragmatically, stating this was done to avoid reputational harm, not as an admission of wrongdoing.
Why the repayment happened
Both parties confirm the repayment took place, but for different reasons.
- SIU view: Recovery of public funds irregularly paid out.
- Dlamini view: A practical decision to end prolonged association with the matter.
Key facts at a glance
- Amount repaid: R50,000
- Year of original payment: 2016
- Investigating body: Special Investigating Unit (SIU)
- Grant source: National Lotteries Commission (NLC)
- Event linked to funding: 2016 Rio Olympic Games Roadshow
Summary table
| Issue | SIU position | Dlamini position |
|---|---|---|
| Nature of payment | Irregular benefit from NLC-linked funds | Legitimate service provider fee |
| Knowledge of fund source | Not lawfully justified | No knowledge of fund origin |
| Reason for repayment | Recovery of misappropriated public funds | To avoid reputational damage |
| Admission of guilt | Not stated | Explicitly denied |
What happens next
The SIU says investigations and legal processes continue against other individuals and entities linked to the broader NLC grant matter.
Dlamini says her rights remain fully reserved and that she objects to any implication of wrongdoing.
