Philani Mzila
The long-smouldering allegations of payola at the SABC have stepped up a gear.
Scrolla.Africa can confirm that the Hawks are investigating payola cases against some high profile radio personalities.
Poet Mzwakhe Mbuli who is representing the artists said they have approached the Hawks to investigate payola cases against radio personalities who are making artists pay money in order for their music to be played.
“I have been instructed not to speak to the media as the matter is very sensitive,” he said.
According to well-placed sources, Mbuli has already met with SABC boss Madoda Xakwe and Ukhozi FM management.
“People will be shocked when the Hawks make arrests as there are prominent people who are involved in this activity,” the source said.
Another mole told Scrolla.Africa that Xakwe travelled to KZN to meet with Ukhozi FM station manager Sbongi Ngcobo and the stations programme manager Zandile Tembe.
“It doesn’t matter how big they are. People are expected to be fired before April as there will be changes on SABC radio stations,” said the source.
Some of the prominent people who are fingered in these activities are Ukhozi FM radio man Tshatha Ngobe and music compilers Khetha Gwala and Zanda Mthembu.
Acting SABC spokesperson Mmoni Seapolela confirmed knowing about the allegations and said the corporation is aware of the allegations of payola and will take the necessary action.
“The corporation views the issue of payola in a serious light and will willingly cooperate with the law enforcement authorities if approached,” she said.
Hawks spokesperson Colonel Katlego Mogale confirmed the Serious Corruption Investigation section of the Hawks was approached by a group of artists and an affidavit was submitted.
“The allegations will be investigated. Unfortunately we can’t name individuals at this stage,” said Mogale.
Picture source: @MzwakheMbuli
