SABC integrity at stake
Selby Khumalo, MP

The ACDP continues to be concerned about the credibility of the SABC as a public broadcaster particularly in its news department.

Recent reports in the media concerning remarks made by Congress of South African Trade Unions (COSATU), General Secretary Zwelinzima Vavi stating that the SABC is stifling freedom of expression were uncalled for, particularly because COSATU is an alliance partner of the ANC government, whom have enjoyed a sympathetic portrayal from the SABC.

As the ACDP we understand the importance of the role of the public broadcaster in our young democracy and take such comments very seriously because the public broadcaster is meant to report in a fair and balanced manner. A public broadcaster must never be bent to support any particular stance or ideology.

The integrity of the SABC as a public broadcaster has long been under scrutiny, their integrity would not be helped if anyone appointed to a post is a known card carrying member or strong sympathizer of the ANC.

The ACDP questions whether appointing a known card carrying member or strong sympathizer of the ANC is a kind of redeployment. If so, it would therefore be obvious that an unwritten code of conduct supporting a particular ideology would be enforced at all costs.

The interests of the citizens of this country must be protected from being bombarded by pro-government propaganda.