Minister of Communications responds to SABC, SA Post Office issues

Furthering her commitment to ensure that all state-owned enterprises (SOE) that report to the department have stable leadership and are sustainable, minister of communications Dina Pule has instigated action following media reports on the SABC and the South African Post Office.

The minister became aware of the process that the SABC intended to follow to appoint a chief operating officer for the broadcaster on Friday 27 January 2012. She immediately requested the board to suspend the current search and to follow a normal and wider executive appointment process.

After this engagement, Pule is satisfied that the SABC board will handle all processes of appointments accordingly. The minister remains committed to assisting the SABC to fill the vacant top posts as soon as possible.

Supports SAPO board

In addition, she has also noted the stories about the settlement between the SA Post Office (SAPO) and its outgoing CEO, Motshoanetsi Lefoka. Pule supports the SAPO board for finalising the dispute in a timely and professional manner. The details of the agreement between the SA Post Office and Lefoka are subject to legal processes and guidelines, therefore a public disclosure of the terms of the settlement at this stage would constitute a breach of this agreement.

The minister believes that this is the only way in which SOE can provide the quality of service that South African citizens deserve.