ICASA tells SABC to withdraw protest ban decision
The Independent Communications Authority of South Africa (ICASA) has ruled that the SABC should withdraw its resolution to no longer broadcast footage of the destruction of property during community protests.
ICASA launched an investigation into the matter after various charges were laid against the SABC, which has been accused of censorship.
The authority's acting chairperson, Rubben Mohlaloga, briefed the media on Monday saying the SABC went against the rules and regulations of the authority when it decided not to broadcast the destruction of property.
ICASA added the decision was also against the Constitutional right of freedom of expression.
Mohlaloga said the decision is binding to all parties unless it's set aside by a court of law.
"The council of ICASA has deliberated on this recommendation and applied its mind fully on the matter taking into account all the facts before it and whether all processes were followed in the conclusion of this matter," he said.
Mohlaloga said the SABC has seven days to implement the recommendation, or its license could be revoked.
"The chairperson of the SABC board must confirm in writing to the ICASA council via the office of the Complaints and Compliance Committee coordinator within seven days from the date on which the order is served that the resolution was indeed taken as ordered by the council," he said.
The SOS Coalition's Sekoetlane Phamodi reacted to the ruling...
Meanwhile, the SABC is expected to brief the media soon.
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