DJ Finzo denies payola claims after sudden Lesedi FM dismissal
Veteran radio personality DJ Finzo, real name Phinel Sefatsa, has strongly denied allegations that he was fired from Lesedi FM for accepting payola, bribes in exchange for airplay.
His dismissal from the SABC-owned station in early April 2025 sent shockwaves through the industry, with reports surfacing on April 7 linking his exit to an alleged payment from Free State music duo Geshlido.
According to reports, Lesedi FM’s Programmes Manager Mannini Nyokong took action after DJ Finzo allegedly acknowledged receiving R5,000 a payment believed to have influenced the station’s music playlist. However, Finzo has refuted this version of events, insisting the money was not a bribe, but rather payment for a 2023 performance at a private event, unrelated to his duties as a music compiler.
“I’ve been with the station for 15 years. Why is something that happened in 2023 suddenly being used to destroy me?” he asked in a public statement, suggesting the accusations are rooted in internal politics at the station. He has also revealed the emotional toll the saga has taken, admitting to struggling with suicidal thoughts as a result of what he believes is a targeted attempt to discredit him.
The SABC and Lesedi FM have yet to issue a detailed public response, leaving many questions unanswered about the process that led to his dismissal.
As the story continues to unfold, Finzo remains adamant that he is innocent of any wrongdoing, framing his ousting as part of a larger effort to tarnish his reputation rather than a clear-cut case of misconduct.