Arena Holdings has reinstated Sunday Times editor Makhudu Sefara following an independent investigation that found no evidence of misconduct.The probe, commissioned after a Special Investigating Unit (SIU) claimed funds from a National Lotteries Commission grant were diverted to Sefara’s company, Unscripted Communication, concluded that the R550,000 disbursed was used for a media training conference.

Werksmans Attorneys, who conducted the investigation, criticized the SIU’s findings as based on an inadequate inquiry and described them as 'manifestly false'.

The SIU had alleged that funds intended for a media training project were misused, but the investigation reviewed documentation, service contracts, correspondence, and financial records to confirm the funds were legitimately spent.

Arena Holdings emphasized its commitment to fairness and truth, stating the investigation found no evidence of misconduct or financial misappropriation.

The company clarified that Sefara was not an employee or journalist at the time of the SIU’s inquiry and that the SIU’s investigation did not target him.This case highlights the importance of thorough due diligence in public funding disputes and the need for balanced scrutiny of institutional claims.