SABC wants to discipline suspended journalists  - Solidarity threatens with legal action

30 June 2016

The SABC today gave the three journalists it had recently suspended less than 24 hours’ notice to appear before a disciplinary committee. In terms of the charge against Foeta Krige, Suna Venter and Thandeka Gqubule they have not identified with the SABC’s censorship instruction.

Solidarity Chief Executive Dr Dirk Hermann says the SABC’s rash decision is highly suspicious. “Not only have the employees not been given sufficient time to prepare for the disciplinary hearing but the SABC has also indicated that the journalists may not have legal representation during the hearing,” Hermann said.

Hermann said Solidarity had meanwhile indicated in a letter to the SABC that this matter deals with the unlawfulness of the instructions and that it is technical in nature. “For this reason, our members are entitled to legal representation. We have also requested that the hearing be postponed. If they do not comply, we will institute legal proceedings,” Hermann said.

“Meanwhile, another three SABC employees, who have also objected to the direction the SABC has taken, must also appear before a disciplinary committee tomorrow. Solidarity is acting on behalf of all six SABC employees who are facing disciplinary action. A huge battle lies ahead of us,” Hermann said.

Issued by Dirk Hermann, Chief Executive: Solidarity, 30 June 2016