Popular radio personality DJ Finzo, whose real name is Phinel Sefatsa, has been officially dismissed from Lesedi FM following allegations that he accepted a bribe from Free State-based musicians in exchange for airplay. The station reportedly took action after an internal investigation into the claims, which have stirred both public criticism and sympathy online.
Allegations Spark Controversy
The controversy centers around DJ Finzo’s alleged involvement with the musical duo Geshlido, who reportedly paid him R5,000 to have their music played on the popular SABC radio station. Reports from Sunday World indicate that DJ Finzo admitted to receiving the money—but strongly denied it was a bribe.
According to Finzo, the payment was remuneration for a live performance he did at the duo’s event in 2023, and not, as claimed, a “payola” scheme to gain exposure on air.
DJ Finzo
DJ Finzo
“I was paid for performing at their gig. That’s all. It was not a bribe or anything unethical,” said DJ Finzo in his defense.
Timing of Accusation Raises Questions
The incident reportedly took place two years ago, but was only recently raised by parties within the station, leading to Finzo’s surprise and suspicion. He claimed the matter had already been addressed shortly after it happened, and that he had been transparent about the transaction.
Following the incident, DJ Finzo said he had a meeting with Lesedi FM’s programs manager, Mannini Nyokong, along with the artists in question. During the meeting, he said he explained that the R5,000 payment was compensation for his time and performance—not to guarantee the artists airtime.
Despite his explanation, the station ultimately decided to terminate his contract.
DJ Finzo
Claims of Internal Conspiracy
Finzo has since alleged that his dismissal may have been the result of an internal conspiracy within the station. He accused Nyokong of collaborating with another music compiler and radio presenter at Lesedi FM to frame him and orchestrate his exit.
“The same Mannini worked with the other music compiler, who is also a radio presenter at the station, to pin this whole thing on me so that I could be fired,” said Finzo.
He believes that there may have been personal motives behind the decision to bring up the issue after such a long time, and that the investigation may not have been entirely fair or impartial.
DJ Finzo
Public Reaction Mixed
The news of DJ Finzo’s dismissal has sparked mixed reactions online, with some social media users expressing disappointment in the DJ, while others questioned the station’s decision. A notable portion of the public has focused less on the ethics of the situation and more on the relatively small amount of money involved.
On platforms like Twitter and Facebook, many netizens made jokes about the alleged “bribe,” suggesting that R5,000 was too little to justify such serious consequences. Others pointed out that the issue highlights the broader problems of payola in South African radio, where some artists have long accused DJs and compilers of favoring those who offer kickbacks.
Payola in the Spotlight
Payola—offering payment or favors in exchange for airplay—is a controversial and illegal practice that has long plagued the broadcasting and music industries globally. While difficult to prove in many cases, it undermines fair access to airplay and gives certain artists an unfair advantage in reaching audiences.
The SABC has not yet released a detailed statement about DJ Finzo’s dismissal, but the case has reignited discussions around transparency, accountability, and fairness in the public broadcaster’s radio programming.
DJ Finzo
What’s Next for DJ Finzo?
As for DJ Finzo, the radio veteran has not indicated whether he plans to appeal his dismissal or pursue any legal action. He remains adamant that the payment he received was above board and has suggested that hidden agendas may have played a role in his removal.
Whether or not this incident will have lasting consequences for his broadcasting career remains to be seen, but it has certainly added another layer to the ongoing conversation around ethics and corruption in South Africa’s entertainment space.