DA demands forensic probe after Gauteng reveals R4m in payments to DStv Delicious festival

The Democratic Alliance (DA)two payments of R2 million to the DStv Delicious food and music festival in the 2025-2026 financial year, a total of R4 million.

Why the DA wants a probe

DA representative Leanne de Jager told The Citizen the party is urging Premier Panyaza Lesufi to launch a forensic investigation into possible wrongdoing, irregularities, or collusion between officials and service providers involved in funding the event.

“The DA calls on Premier Lesufi to launch a forensic investigation into possible wrongdoing, irregularities, or collusion between officials and service providers in bankrolling this event.” Leanne de Jager

Contradictory departmental responses

De Jager also highlighted what she described as contradictory statements from the premier and provincial departments about which parts of government supported the festival and how much public money was involved.

The source of some of that contradiction stems from the former MEC of Economic Development, Lebogang Maile, who denied that his former department had contributed to the event.

Concerns over priorities and return on investment

De Jager criticised the provincial government’s spending on high-profile entertainment events, saying such payments benefit a select few while basic sporting infrastructure needed by communities goes unfunded. She said the events do not deliver lasting benefits to residents or to the sports, arts and culture sectors in the province.

“They are spending too much money on one-day events that are not focused on service delivery, instead of investing in infrastructure projects that would leave a lasting legacy in our communities.” Leanne de Jager

About the festival and next steps

The DStv Delicious festival is described in the reporting as an annual Johannesburg event known for bringing in big international musicians to South Africa.

The Citizen has reached out to Premier Lesufi’s office and to the Gauteng Department of Sports, Arts, Culture and Recreation for comment; the paper said it will include responses once they are received.