Dr Lindelani Mkhize, the founding member and Creative Director of the renowned gospel ensemble Joyous Celebration, has publicly addressed recent allegations regarding the financial management and governance of the organisation.
In his statement, Mkhize categorically refuted claims of improper or unlawful conduct, asserting that they are rooted in longstanding internal disputes stemming from recent tensions among key members.
“Payment administration has been conducted through the Joyous Office under Pastor Jabu Hlongwane as the duly appointed bank transactor. The bank’s audit trail reflects this fact,” he said.
Mkhize said tensions began in December 2021 when Pastor Hlongwane and Pastor Mthunzi Namba indicated their intention to exit the organisation, followed by formal written confirmation in March 2022.
He welcomed a structured separation process, subject to independent valuation and full financial disclosure.
Mkhize added that historically, major events, sponsorship receipts and bookings were handled by an external managing agent.
After the agency’s exit, these functions were administered internally, during which certain liabilities, including tax obligations, became apparent. Upon discovering the issues, Mkhize requested historical bank statements and instructed an independent accountant to review the records.
“The central disagreement concerns governance principles, including the distinction between operational remuneration, performance fees linked to active participation, and ownership returns, such as dividends declared in accordance with financial performance. Membership does not create an automatic entitlement to ongoing payments in the absence of participation or outside declared distributions,” he said.
Mkhize reaffirmed his commitment to transparency, proper governance, and protecting the Joyous Celebration legacy, noting that all matters are subject to formal arbitration and will be resolved through lawful and structured processes.
Saturday Star