Letter to the National Assembly: SOS Urges the National Assembly to Consider Public Opinion in the SABC Board Recommendations

The SOS Support Public Broadcasting Coalition (SOS) is a non-profit, civil society coalition that represents non-governmental organisations (NGOs), community-based organisations (CBOs), community media, independent film and TV production sector organisations, academics, freedom of expression activists and concerned individuals. It advocates for the presence of robust public service media dedicated to broadcasting quality, diverse and citizen-orientated content to deepen South Africa’s constitutional values and principles.

SOS would like to draw your attention to the attached letter which was sent to the Parliamentary Portfolio Committee (PPC) on Communications on 24 November 2022 urging it to consider our concerns, initially raised during the process participation by means of a submission. SOS put forth that Mr Dinkwanyane Kgalema Mohuba was found guilty of fraudulently hiring 2 Zimbabweans to write his doctoral thesis (the case has been appealed). We believe his appointment will taint the credibility of the Board. Ms Nomvuyiso Batyi has extensive experience and will make an exceptional Board member, however her employment as the CEO of Association of Communications and Technology (ACT) poses as a conflict of interest and we propose that her appointment be subject to her resigning from ACT.

SOS is of the view that an independent and credible Board is fundamental to building an independent and credible SABC. We hope you will consider our concerns when recommending names to the President for appointment.

Yours in commitment to an accountable public broadcaster

Uyanda Siyotula

National Coordinator