Dr Lindelani Mkhize, co-founder of Joyous Celebration, has denied allegations of financial misconduct as a governance dispute with fellow directors enters arbitration.
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Dr Lindelani Mkhize has broken his silence on the governance dispute at Joyous Celebration, firmly rejecting allegations of financial misconduct made by fellow directors Pastor Jabu Hlongwane and Mthunzi Namba.
In a statement issued earlier this week, Mkhize said he “categorically rejects any suggestion of improper or unlawful conduct” and described the matter as a longstanding governance disagreement now subject to formal arbitration.
“This statement is issued on behalf of Dr Lindelani Mkhize in his personal capacity as a founding member of Joyous Celebration,” it read.
“Recent media reporting has referenced allegations concerning the finances and governance of the entity. Many of the issues referenced arise from governance disputes that date back several years.”
Mkhize stated that he “has never transacted on the company’s bank account nor exercised control over payments.”
He stated that payment administration was conducted through the Joyous office under Pastor Hlongwane, who was the appointed bank transactor, and that “the bank audit trail reflects this fact.”
According to the statement, in December 2021, the three directors met, and Hlongwane and Namba expressed their intention to exit the organisation. “A formal written communication confirming that position followed in March 2022,” the statement said.
“Dr Mkhize welcomed a structured separation process subject to independent valuation and full financial disclosure.”
He further stated that significant liabilities, including tax obligations, accumulated during a period when financial administration was handled internally.
“Upon discovering these matters, Dr Mkhize requested historical bank statements and instructed an independent accountant to review the records.”
The statement quoted a response from Hlongwane, which read: “Dear Mr Mkhize. If there are payments you want to ask about, I suggest that you ask me. Mpho does not make payments. He might have an idea about other things, but payments are made at the office.”
Mkhize said that no further clarification has been provided regarding the accumulated liabilities or the continued payment of performance-related fees to members who have not actively participated in productions for several years.
“The central disagreement concerns governance principles,” the statement said.
“Membership does not create an automatic entitlement to ongoing operational payments in the absence of participation or outside declared distributions.”
Mkhize added that he will not “litigate governance disputes or conclude a potential buyout in the media” and remains committed to resolving the matter through lawful processes.
“These matters are subject to formal arbitration where all parties will account fully in accordance with due process,” the statement said.
“Dr Mkhize remains committed to the truth and to the protection of the Joyous Celebration brand and staff.”