Report on Alleged SABC Interference Published

A commission of inquiry led by the chairperson of South Africa’s Press Council Dr Joe Thloloe has this week released its final report into allegations of interference at the country’s public broadcaster, SABC.

According to the findings the investigation did no establish any direct links between the ruling African National Congress (ANC) party and decisions taken in the newsroom. However, it did stress, “The spectre of the ANC hovered over the whole newsroom.”

Moreover, it painted a damning picture of the environment at SABC.

“The commission found that the SABC suffered from the capricious use of authority and power to terrorise staff and to deflect the corporation from its mandate and its policies,” the report reads.

“We found an organisation crippled by pain, anger, and fear. By frustration, anxiety, and apathy. By inattentiveness, detachment, and helplessness.”

The report also named several individuals, including the former communications minister Faith Muthambi who has since rejected the findings of the report. Muthambi says she may take the report to review. 

A number of recommendations have been made to improve governance and the working environment at the public broadcaster.