SABC vs DA: a luta continua

Last night, Wednesday, 1 September 2010, the SABC released another statement - the second in 24 hours - accusing the DA of choosing to respond selectively and out of context in response to its statement released on Tuesday 31 August, in an attempt to once again mislead the public and distort the real facts.

Long way to go

The DA said the SABC has a long way to go before it can even begin to talk about ethical and objective journalism.

Analysts believe the relationship between the two organisations, which do not like each other very much, will continue to worsen as the local government elections draw nearer.

The DA accuses the SABC of being the ANC's propaganda machine, and has in a number of occasions complained that the public broadcaster is biased against other political parties in terms of news coverage. The Western Cape, home to some 65% of Afrikaans speakers, is ruled by the DA. The province has in the past been involved in another 'positive news-for-cash' scandal, or brown envelope journalism, dating from ANC's Ebrahim Rasool leadership.

Some observers have lauded the DA for exposing the SABC's alleged 'most astounding offer' in this age of media freedom crisis.

Continue to take a beating

As the media continue to take a beating from the ANC and its allies over ethics and objectivity, Prof Franz Krüger, director of Wits Radio Academy, yesterday entered the fray, saying: "There are obviously different versions of this incident on the table, so one should be a little cautious.

"But it does seem that a news programme should not offer time and attention on a paid basis. If the story is valid, it should be covered, and the costs borne by the broadcaster.

"I'm not sure what current SABC policy is. But while it is unlikely that the SABC could or would accept a purist position on sponsorship (as distinct from advertising, which is clearly separate and recognisable), some elements of a policy should include: news coverage should not generally be sponsored.

"Some attempt will have to be made to define what SABC programmes qualify as news or current affairs, and which don't. If an exception is being considered, a decision-making process must be laid down which ensures that editorial decision-making is driven by sound professional considerations. Viewers and listeners need to be informed."

Seems to have lost its way

The Auckland Park-based institution, which seems to have lost its way due to a myriad financial and management crises, is once again in turmoil as CEO Solly Mokoetle has been suspended by the board and alliance groups are tearing each other apart over the issue.

The Communications Workers' Union (CWU), which supports the board, said yesterday the CEO's suspension should allow the board to get to the bottom of the matter in the hope to ultimately bring stability at the SABC since developments have so far impacted negatively on its members.

CWU said calling the SABC board counter-revolutionaries by 'some organisation' is reckless and irresponsible. It was referring to the MK Military Veterans. Comrade Mokoetle is a former MK fighter.

For more:

• The Daily Maverick: SABC sinks even deeper into controversy; yes, it is possible
  
• Google News Search: SABC