SABC does the can-can

NEWSWATCH: The SABC canned three print media commentators discussing coverage of the road to Mangaung (see SABC ... at it again) on a Metro FM show, because, according to Times Live, the ANC was not invited to join the debate. Meanwhile, it's the "jug-jug" for musician Jub Jub who has got 25 years for his role in the death of four teenagers, reports Mail & Guardian.

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Times Live: SABC won't hear no evil... OK, so let's get this straight... Sunday Times political editor S'thembiso Msomi, Business Day political editor Sam Mkokeli and Financial Times Southern African bureau chief Andrew England were canned because...

According to Times Live, with the ANC not being represented, "Acting chief operating officer Hlaudi Motsoeneng ... said the show would have been 'unbalanced'."

He's also reported as refuting accusations of political interference and censorship.

There are many people who might question whether "balance" has ever been a priority at the SABC; more than a few people view the national broadcaster as little more than a government mouthpiece - or a mouthpiece for whatever faction is currently ruling the roost in government, at any rate.

It has been accused more than once of acting against those who don't appear to "toe the line'.

Mail & Guardian: Outcry over Jub Jub's 25-year sentence... Molemo "Jub Jub" Maarohanye would naturally be a bit put out at having to go to prison, but relatives of the four children he mowed down are upset when music-man got 25 years for what he did... Many people would perhaps sympathise... To them it works out at six years three months per child (to that, one must also add the two other children who have been left brain-damaged).

Magistrate Brian Nemavhidi told Maarohanye and co-accused Themba Tshabalala: "All is not lost, the two of you are still young and you do not have any previous convictions."

Four parents have lost, however... Their children. And two other parents must live with the burden of caring for their children, now brain-damaged, for the rest of their lives.

It's not difficult to see how they might feel they have been "short-changed" by our justice system.