Artists accuse government of hijacking much-needed funds

At the back of Sport, Arts and Culture Minister Zizi Kodwa’s resignation, some artists and athletes have come forward, saying corruption in the department has left them struggling.

Kodwa was granted R30 000 bail in the Palm Ridge Magistrates Court today.

He’s accused of accepting bribes worth more than R1 million from former EOH technology boss, Jehan Mackay, who appeared as the second accused in the corruption saga.

Both men have pleaded not guilty to the crimes, which allegedly took place between 2014-2015.

Meanwhile, Kodwa’s legal team have accused the National Prosecuting Authority (NPA) of violating his rights after allegedly leaking details of the case to the media, suggesting the case may be politically motivated.

The case has since been postponed to the 23rd of July.

On the sidelines of the courtroom saga, artists are calling for more accountability from corruption accused officials.

They say dishonest dealings at the arts and culture department have prevented artists from accessing much-needed funding, resources and opportunities.

There’ve been growing complaints among artists that not enough is being done to bolster South Africa’s creative economy.

And despite large sums being allocated by National Treasury to fund the arts, artist Brian Ntombela says while politicians are cashing in, creatives are not benefiting.

“The ANC government, all of them are corrupt. They make sure they corrupt the department, all while artists and athletes on the ground are suffering,” he told YNews.

He’s urged the next Minister to serve the creative community and not their own interests. Written by Naomi Kobbie