ANC demands probe into alleged R65 million National Arts Council fund transfer - IOL

ANC spokesperson Mahlengi Bhengu-Motsiri.

The African National Congress (ANC) Parliamentary Caucus has called for an investigation into allegations surrounding the transfer of R65 million from the National Arts Council (NAC) to a Reserve Bank account, demanding accountability and clarity over who authorised the transaction.

In a media statement issued on Friday, the ANC Caucus said it was concerned about allegations contained in a letter dated November 10, 2026, which disputed information reportedly presented to Parliament's Portfolio Committee on November 10 regarding the transfer.

The letter allegedly raised questions about the authorisation, transparency and accountability surrounding the funds.

The ANC said public money must be managed with honesty and transparency, particularly funds intended to support artists during the difficult period of the Covid-19 pandemic.

“Money intended to support artists, particularly during the difficult period of COVID-19, must be properly accounted for,” said ANC Parliamentary Caucus spokesperson Hlengiwe Hadebe.

It expressed concern that millions of rands could have been transferred without clear explanations while artists continued to struggle to access financial support.

The caucus has called on the NAC to provide a full and detailed report explaining the R65 million transfer, including evidence of who authorised the transactions and whether the correct procedures were followed.

It also wants clarity on whether any Covid-19 relief funds intended for artists formed part of the money transferred.

The ANC further demanded an investigation into allegations that Parliament and the NAC Council may have been misled, as well as accountability and appropriate action against anyone found to have acted unlawfully or misrepresented information.

The caucus said it would not tolerate the misuse of public funds or conduct that undermined accountability.

“Every rand meant for artists must be accounted for. Parliament must never be misled, and those responsible for wrongdoing must face the consequences,” said Hadebe.

The ANC Parliamentary Caucus added that the allegations required a proper investigation and called for transparency over the handling of the funds.