The South African Broadcasting Corporation (SABC) refutes reports alleging that its group executive for news and current affairs, Moshoeshoe Monare, is under scrutiny by the State Security Agency (SSA).
The controversy stems from leaked audio recordings involving ANC president Cyril Ramaphosa.
The SABC clarified that it has no evidence of being targeted by the presidency or any of its executives. The broadcaster emphasized its procedural requirement to initiate vetting processes for all group executives, including Monare, in accordance with its status as a national key point area.
Monare’s Role and Vetting Process
Monare, who has held his position for two years, is undergoing standard vetting procedures consistent with his employment contract. Contrary to assertions, he is not subject to an unfair second round of vetting. Monare had initiated the vetting process by submitting a Z204 security clearance form in October 2022.
Media freedom advocates, including the South African National Editors Forum (Sanef), expressed concerns over the SSA’s attempt to vet Monare again. They emphasized the importance of editorial independence and press freedom, particularly during an election period.
Sanef’s Position
Sanef underscored that journalists should be excluded from SSA vetting procedures, as per the Critical Infrastructure Act. The timing of the vetting request, weeks before a highly contested election, raised suspicions of political interference.
Sanef urged the SABC board to condemn any interference in its editorial process and called on Communications Minister Mondli Gungubele to protect Monare from political influence during the election period.
The SABC asserts its commitment to upholding procedural standards in vetting processes for its executives. Media freedom advocates remain vigilant in safeguarding editorial independence and press freedom amid allegations of political interference.
ALSO CHECK:
- South Africa’s Crypto Asset Service Providers Face Tightened Transaction Rules
- Cameroon Authorities Confiscate Starlink Kits as Service Shutdown Looms
- Five African Start-ups Secure Spots in AfricArena Tour 2024 Grand Finale
- Bank of Uganda’s ID Verification Mandate Sparks Controversy Amid Resistance
- Five African Start-ups Secure Spots in AfricArena Tour 2024 Grand Finale
