SACP STATEMENT ON THE MOOTED SABC 24hr NEWS CHANNEL

The SACP has noted media reports suggesting that the SABC is on the verge of launching a 24hr news channel as part of the offerings on the DSTV bouquet. The SACP wishes to state upfront that it supports in principle the idea of an SABC 24hr news channel.

The SACP however finds it objectionable that the idea is to launch this important channel on DSTV. We are also worried about the lack of clarity on the proposed channel and the relationship with Africa News Network 7 owned by amongst others the Gupta family. The SACP views the latest attempt as a part privatization of public broadcasting service at best and at worst a poor attempt at a Private Public Partnership.

The SACP is strongly opposed to the mooted launch on DSTV or the poor attempt at a PPP. We support the launch of the 24hr news channel on a free to air basis that must be accessible to all South Africans. We call on government to also move with the requisite pace to finalise the migration from analogue broadcasting to digital. The SACP further calls on government through Treasury to favourably look at increasing funding for the SABC to be able to offer this public service to citizens.

Statement issued by the SACP, July 9 2013

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