New SABC board Chairperson and Deputy Chairperson are close allies to President Zuma and his family
17 October 2017
The DA notes with grave concern the appointment of SABC board Chairperson, Bongumusa Makhathini and Deputy Chairperson, Febe Potgieter-Gqubule, who are close allies to President Zuma and his family. This comes after President Zuma has been in possession of the recommended candidates for over a month.
The SABC interim Board’s term of office came to an end on 26 September 2017 and the embattled entity has been without a board since.
Despite the appointments finally being made, the DA has some concerns regarding the suitability and impartiality of the Chairperson and Deputy Chairperson appointed by the President.
The Chairman, Bongumusa Makhathini, is also the Chairman of a foundation run by one of President Zuma’s wives, Bongi Ngema-Zuma. His proximity to the Zuma family is a concern.