Concert bash for Hlaudi

THE Maluti-A-Phofung Municipality in the Free State is throwing a “homecoming” concert for former SABC chief financial officer Hlaudi Motsoeneng in Phuthaditjhaba, with gospel star Rebecca Malope and Dr Malinga billed to perform.

A poster picturing Motsoeneng, mayor Vusi Tshabalala and the municipality’s coat of arms was circulated, inviting residents to the bash at a stadium today.

Municipal spokesperson Kedibone Sentle would not confirm whether the municipality, which included areas such as Harrismith and Qwaqwa, was footing the bill.

Free State gospel star Teboho Moloi, convicted killer Molemo “Jub Jub” Maarohanye – recently released on parole – and Doc Shebeleza are other artists on the bill.

Motsoeneng, whose tenure at the SABC was marked by financial and political controversy, was replaced by Keobokile Mosweu as head of corporate affairs after he was denied leave to appeal against the Western Cape High Court ruling that set aside his appointment.

Last week, a report compiled by an ad hoc committee of Parliament on the SABC was adopted by the National Assembly. It recommended that President Jacob Zuma consider firing Communications Minister Faith Muthambi, on whose watch governance at the public broadcaster had degenerated.

DA councillor in Maluti-APhofung Alison Oates said a probe into the cost of the event and who would pay for it had been launched.

There was “absolutely nothing to celebrate Motsoeneng’s sketchy career and his plunging of the SABC into financial chaos”, Oates said. – ANA