Communications Committee welcomes Minister Faith Muthambi’s response with regards to removal of SABC Board Members
The Portfolio Committee on Communications has welcomed a response from the Minister of the Department of Communications, Ms Faith Mthambi, regarding the legal opinion that was sought following the removal of three Board Members of the South African Broadcasting Corporation (SABC). The members were Mr Ronnie Lubisi, Ms Rachel Kalidass and Ms Hope Zinde.
“In light of the fact that there was no formal dispute and complaint from the affected members, the Committee would like to consider this matter officially closed,” said Ms Dikeledi Tsotetsi, Committee Acting Chairperson. Ms Tsotetsi further reiterated that upon listening to the Minister’s response, the Committee was satisfied that the SABC Board had followed due process and did not break any law to remove the three members.
The purpose of the legal opinion, which was sought from the Parliament’s Constitution and Legal Services Unit, was to advise the Committee on the legality of the SABC Board’s decision. It concluded that any removal of SABC board member that was not effected in line with the provisions of the Broadcasting Act, and was therefore invalid and unlawful.
On the other hand, Minister Mthambi told the Committee that the SABC acted legally in accordance with section 71 of the Companies Act (Act No. 71 of 2008).
For media enquiries or interviews with the Chairperson, please contact:
Justice Molafo
Tel: 021 403 8444
Cell: 081 424 7481
Email: jmolafo@parliament.gov.za
