FBJ emergence indicates problems in media – HRC

SANEF is up in arms over the closure to the public of a workshop to discuss the proposed Films and Publications Amendment Bill that contains clauses directly impacting on press freedom, writes Sowetan.

The Freedom of Expression Institute is also supposed to be considering legal action to challenge President Thabo Mbeki's appointment of the new SABC board, according to Business Day, following COSATU's confirmation last week that it would go ahead with its legal challenge against Mbeki.

TV star and Sowetan pub owner Shimmy Mofokeng was shot dead in a botched hijacking at his neighbours on Monday night, 3 March 2008, reports IOL and the Mail & Guardian Online.

Currently in court are former Lesedi FM presenter Thuso Motaung and his wife Mmamontha, who are up on corruption charges along with business partner Joshua Ramme. According to the Sowetan, the state has failed to produce witnesses, nor has there been a criminal investigation by the police – the charges have been laid by an SABC internal investigation.

For more:

• IOL: 'Need for FBJ indicates problems in media'
  
• SABCnews.com: HRC wants justification of Black Journalists Forum
  
• Sowetan: SANEF slates ban
  
• Business Day: Freedom body may oppose SABC appointments
  
• IOL: Actor slain in ambush
  
• Mail & Guardian Online: Actor killed in attempted hijacking
  
• Sowetan: Thuso may walk free...
  
• Sowetan: ‘SABC favoured Power Mix advert'