Parliament ‘deeply concerned’ by SABC dismissals

20 July 2016

Cape Town - Parliament is deeply concerned by recent developments at the SABC, including the dismissal of eight journalists this week, its portfolio committee on communications said on Wednesday.

“Although not privy to the merits and demerits of the cases, resignations and dismissals of employees are a reason for concern, especially in a country with high levels of unemployment,” chairperson Humphrey Maxegwana said in a statement.

“The SABC’s mandate is to broadcast in the public interest, but lately there has been public outcry about developments at the corporation. This is another reason for concern.”

Eight journalists, dubbed the SABC 8, have approached the Constitutional Court after they were fired on Monday and Tuesday this week.

On Wednesday, the High Court in Pretoria interdicted the SABC from enforcing its ban on broadcasting violent protests.

Communications Minister Faith Muthambi was expected to appear before the committee on August 23 to discuss issues under her purview.

The committee would use the meeting to get a better understanding of developments at the SABC. It hoped the broadcaster would abide by Wednesday's high court order.

This article first appeared on News24, see here.