19 November 2024
The ANC Study Group on Communications & Digital Technologies remains concerned of the Minister’s unilateral decision to withdraw the SABC Bill without any form of consultation with the key role players in the legislative arm, such as the Portfolio Committee and other stakeholders. We found out for the first time, of the Ministers intention to withdraw the SABC Bill through the media. Not only does this undermine the spirit and intention of the Portfolio Committee to work hand in hand with the executive to find solutions to the multiple challenges confronting our people, but it also undermines the very statement of intent which foregrounds the formation of the GNU. The statement of intent alludes that “The people of South Africa expect us to work together as political parties to achieve the set-out objectives, and to usher in a new era of peace, justice and prosperity for all”. The Minister must clarify if this is no longer a position that he and his party holds.
It is our considered view that in order for us to usher in this new era, we have to be willing to change the silo approach and create a conducive environment and relationship for open, robust and meaningful engagements, so that the ground is fertile for service delivery that is effective and efficient in the lives of South Africans.
We are disappointed that, the Minister was quick to air this unconsidered view before he could carefully consider its implications on the SABC and fellow South Africans who look to the SABC for its universal coverage of information, education and entertainment that is easily accessible and affordable for all.
As we approach the Portfolio Committee this morning, we hope that the Minister can give a clearer reason behind this hasty decision and also perhaps, provide an alternative funding model for the entity, because while he criticises the current proposal as outlined in the Bill, we are yet to get an alternative funding strategy from him.
The Study Group maintains that any aspect of the Bill that the Minister was unhappy about, could have been thoroughly interrogated and processed in the Portfolio Committee, also considering that the Portfolio Committee was in the process of doing exactly that! The concerns he raises are nothing new, they have been flagged by other organisations during the hearing processes, and a process to deal with them was underway.
By withdrawing the Bill, the Minister is essentially neglecting the time and over R20 million that was spent on the entire legislative process including public hearings to consult various stakeholders since the inception of this process. We cannot overemphasise how crucial this Bill is to the SABC. Through it, the Corporation will be able to effectively address its funding model, modernise and replace outdated assets thereby contributing to cutting-edge and compelling content as well as, more opportunities for job creation. As things stand the situation is dire for the Corporation as there is no capital investment due to its financial situation. However, we do want to acknowledge the work of the SABC team, which really demonstrates that through dedication, clear plans and strategies powered by the will to implement, the entity is able to turn the tide.
The open-ended deferral of the Bill which the Minister intends to pose is regressive. We call on the Minister to take a moment to reflect on the consequences that a possible withdrawal would have for the ailing entity and to also take into cognisance that this is not a private member’s Bill, but a Bill tabled by the executive and cabinet. In light of this, we are keen on getting further guidance from cabinet on the Bill and as the Minister actions those recommendations to take us into confidence.
The SABC does not have the luxury of time!
Issued by the Whip of the Study Group on Communications & Digital Technologies, Comrade Imraan Subrathie
Enquiries
Cde Hlengiwe Hadebe
Media Liaison Officer
+27 64 147 3276