Growing concerns over political interference at the SABC after axing of the news boss
The latest developments at the South African Broadcasting Corporation (SABC) have left a bitter taste among the media fraternity and unions.
This after SABC Head of News, Phathiswa Magopeni, was fired with immediate effect on Friday.
The SABC cited a breakdown in the trust relationship between Mogopeni and the public broadcaster following the outcomes of a hearing on her conduct.
Magopeni came under fire after she allowed investigative news programme,Special Assignment, to air an episode the SABC had been interdicted from broadcasting.
The South African National Editors’ Forum (SANEF) says it is saddened by Magopeni’s dismissal axing.
SANEF deputy chairperson Adriaan Basson believes the move is politically motivated.
“Magopeni’s abrupt dismissal comes before a panel had adjudicated her very serious grievances against (SABC) CEO, Madoda Mxakwe, and Chairperson Bongumusa Makhathini, alleging that they had interfered in the editorial independence of the SABC by forcing her to set up interviews with ANC president, Cyril Ramaphosa, during last year’s municipal elections campaign,” explains Basson.
“Magopeni confidently contends that her sacking is directly linked to her refusal to take instructions from her bosses.”
Claims of political interference continue to plague the SABC newsroom.
Basson says this poses a threat to media freedom.
“Phathiswa Magopeni was absolutely fearless and independent in her approach to her politics. She did not favour the ANC in her coverage, she was critical to the governing party and the ANC, as she should be.
“This is another long and sad history of political interference at the public broadcaster that we all had hoped would end when President Cyril Ramaphosa was installed but seemingly it didn’t.”
SANEF vows to support Magopeni in her appeal against the decision.
“Phathiswa Magopeni has indicated that she will challenge her dismissal from the SABC and we believe this is the right way to go about things.”
Broadcasting, Electronic, Media & Allied Workers Union (Bemawu) also echoed its concern about the decision.
Listen to SANEF's Adriaan Basson below:
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