Parliament endorses Tau’s cautious approach to granting fourth National Lottery Licence

By Thapelo Molefe

The Portfolio Committee on Trade, Industry, and Competition has endorsed minister Parks Tau’s cautious approach to awarding the fourth National Lottery Licence.

This follows the minister’s weekend announcement of a postponement in the decision, indicating the need to ensure compliance with the Lotteries Act (Act 57 of 1997) and uphold the integrity of the licensing process.

Committee Chairperson Mzwandile Masina endorsed Tau’s decision to scrutinize bids for the National Lottery Licence thoroughly.

“The committee fully supports the Minister’s statement that further work will be done to ensure the credibility of this process, which has faced public scrutiny in the past,” Masina said.

He encouraged the minister to explore alternative options if awarding the licence before the current one expires on 31 May 2025 proves unfeasible.

“We urge the Minister to consider measures such as issuing a temporary licence under Section 13B of the Lotteries Act or exploring