The Free State government is under increasing scrutiny over the allocation of R20 million for this year’s Macufe Festival, as industry figures call for a legislative investigation. Concerns have been raised about how the budget was managed, including procurement processes and artist fees, with critics arguing the festival failed to support local businesses. The event, which began in Bloemfontein on Thursday, has sparked calls for transparency, as questions remain about the use of public funds. Despite the festival’s start, officials have not yet provided detailed accounts of how the money was spent. Industry leaders are urging the legislature to intervene, highlighting the need for accountability in public spending. The situation underscores growing public interest in how cultural events are funded and managed.