DA Calls for Investigation into ‘Music in the Snow Festival’ Mismanagement in Hogsback

HOGSBACK – The Democratic Alliance (DA) is demanding an urgent investigation into the alleged mismanagement of public funds following the disappointing ‘Music in the Snow Festival’ held this past weekend.

Funded in part by the Eastern Cape Department of Sports, Recreation, Arts and Culture (DSRAC), the festival aimed to boost local tourism but fell short due to delays, missing performers, and technical issues.

Headline acts like Nathi Mankayi and Simmy reportedly withdrew due to the organizers’ failure to honor their contracts, leaving ticketholders frustrated and out of pocket.

DA Shadow MEC for Sports, Recreation, Arts and Culture, MPL Leander 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.”

Kruger has reached out to MEC Sibulele Ngongo and MEC Nonkqubela Pieters, urging them to investigate the use of public funds and ensure proper due diligence was followed.

The DA is also scrutinizing the involvement of co-sponsors, including the Raymond Mhlaba Local Municipality and the Eastern Cape Development Corporation.

In response to the backlash, festival organizers issued a formal apology. CEO Mlindi Ntloko acknowledged the logistical challenges, stating, “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.”

Kruger emphasized the importance of cultural events, saying, “The Eastern Cape has a rich cultural and artistic heritage. Events like these should uplift both performers and communities, not leave them disillusioned.”

As the investigation unfolds, many are hoping for accountability and improvements in future events.