The Financial Sector Conduct Authority (FSCA) of South Africa has confirmed that it is currently investigating allegations against Ithemba Lama Afrika and Mr. Kabelo Gwamanda, the Mayor of Johannesburg. The announcement comes amidst growing media interest in the matter.

The Executive Committee of the FSCA, led by Commissioner U. Kamlana and Deputy Commissioners A. Ludin, K. Gibson, and F. Badat, issued a press release on 19 June 2023, stating that the investigation is ongoing and no further details can be disclosed at this point.

Ithemba Lama Afrika, a prominent organization in South Africa, and Mr. Gwamanda, the current Mayor of Johannesburg, have been the subjects of complaints received by the FSCA. The nature of these complaints, however, remains undisclosed due to the ongoing investigation.

The FSCA has emphasized that the initiation of an investigation should not be interpreted as an indication that any individual or entity has indeed violated a financial sector law. The primary objective of the investigation is to ascertain whether such a contravention has taken place.

“The existence of an investigation should not be construed as a statement or indication that any person has indeed contravened a financial sector law,” the FSCA stated in its press release. “The purpose of the investigation is to establish whether such a contravention has occurred.”

The FSCA, as the market conduct regulator of financial institutions, including banks, insurers, retirement funds, and market infrastructures, is committed to promoting and maintaining a sound financial investment environment in South Africa. The authority is tasked with enhancing the efficiency and integrity of financial markets, protecting consumers, and reducing systemic risk.

The investigation into Ithemba Lama Afrika and Mr. Gwamanda is part of the FSCA’s mandate to ensure that the financial sector operates in a manner that is fair, transparent, and in the best interests of the South African public.

Once the investigation is concluded, the FSCA has committed to informing the public of the outcome. This commitment aligns with the authority’s policy of transparency and its responsibility to keep the public informed about significant developments in the financial sector.

The FSCA’s investigation into Ithemba Lama Afrika and Mr. Gwamanda is a developing story that has captured significant media attention. As the investigation unfolds, the public and the media will be keenly watching for updates and the eventual outcome.

The FSCA’s announcement serves as a reminder of the regulatory body’s commitment to maintaining the integrity of South Africa’s financial sector and its readiness to take necessary actions to protect the interests of consumers and the public at large.

While the investigation is ongoing, all parties involved, including Ithemba Lama Afrika and Mr. Gwamanda, are presumed innocent until proven otherwise. The FSCA has urged the public to refrain from speculation and to respect the ongoing investigative process.