Sunday Times Editor Sefara placed on special leave amid SIU lottery probe

Sunday Times editor Makhudu Sefara has been placed on special leave following allegations of financial irregularities tied to a broader investigation into the misuse of National Lottery funds.

In a statement on Tuesday, Arena Holdings, the publisher of the Sunday Times, confirmed it has engaged Sefara regarding the claims, noting that he has denied any wrongdoing.

The move comes after the Special Investigating Unit (SIU) revealed it had recovered more than R3 million from entities accused of improperly benefiting from funds distributed by the National Lotteries Commission (NLC). Sefara is alleged to have received over R500,000 linked to a media-related project.

Responding to the allegations, Sefara rejected the claims, saying the SIU’s version of events is incorrect.

“Very quickly, and clearly, allow me to say for the record that it’s nonsense that my company received funds and no event took place,” he said.

“I will release a statement of facts, with supporting documentation, that prove a lie to what the SIU says about Unscripted Communication and I.”

Arena Holdings said it would allow Sefara time and space to address the allegations and seek to clear his name, while also appointing an independent investigator to review the matter.

“Pending the conclusion of this process, Mr Sefara will take special leave,” the company said.

In the interim, deputy editor Mike Siluma has been appointed acting editor of the Sunday Times with immediate effect.