HOGSBACK- The Democratic Alliance (DA) in the Eastern Cape is calling for an urgent investigation into the alleged mismanagement of public funds at the recent ‘Music in the Snow Festival‘ in Hogsback this past weekend.
The festival, partially funded by the Eastern Cape Department of Sports, Recreation, Arts and Culture (DSRAC), aimed to promote local tourism and celebrate Eastern Cape talent.However, the event was marred by delays, missing performers, and technical disruptions, leaving ticketholders disappointed and out of pocket.
Headline acts like Nathi Mankayi and Simmy reportedly withdrew from the event due to the organizers’ failure to honor their contracts.
DA Shadow MEC for Sports, Recreation, Arts and Culture, MPL Leander Kruger, has written to EC DSRAC MEC Sibulele Ngongo, demanding a full investigation into the use of public funds for the event. Kruger stated, “The Eastern Cape government must account for the alleged mismanagement of public funds at this festival. Our artists deserve professionalism, and our people deserve better value when public money is spent in their name.”
The DA is also concerned about the role of co-sponsors, including the Raymond Mhlaba Local Municipality, the Eastern Cape Development Corporation (ECDC), and the Eastern Cape Gambling Board, all of which rely on public resources to fulfill their mandates.
Kruger has also written to MEC Nonkqubela Pieters, who oversees the Department of Economic Development, Environmental Affairs and Tourism (DEDEAT), to establish how public funding was used and whether due diligence processes were followed.
In response to the controversy, the organizers of Music in the Snow issued a formal apology letter, acknowledging the disappointment caused by the festival’s logistical challenges and contractual obligations.
The letter, signed by Chief Executive Officer Mlindi Ntloko states, “To our valued patrons, artists and partners we acknowledge that the recent festival did not meet the expectations of everyone involved and we apologize for the inconvenience caused. We take full responsibility for the issues that arose and promise to work tirelessly to ensure that our future events meet the high standards of quality and entertainment that you deserve. Thank you for your understanding, patience and continued support. We’re committed to delivering an exceptional experience for all stakeholders. Sincerely,Mlindi Ntloko Chief Executive Officer Music In The Snow”.
Kruger emphasized, “The Eastern Cape has a rich cultural and artistic heritage. Events like these should uplift both performers and communities, not leave them disillusioned.”
The investigation into the alleged mismanagement of public funds will likely shed more light on the matter.
Photographs: supplied
