EDITORIAL: Fine line for the SABC
First it was the Democratic Alliance (DA) that took exception to the SABC's decision to ban its TV advert last week.
THE South African Broadcasting Corporation (SABC) is coming under increasing scrutiny, this time for its fairness and objectivity in deciding what material is suitable for broadcast during the run-up to the general election on 7 May.
First it was the Democratic Alliance (DA) that took exception to the SABC’s decision to ban its TV advert last week.
A protracted objection process through the Independent Communications Authority of South Africa and the court followed, before the national broadcaster reconsidered its position and made the call to air the advert.
This week it is the turn of newcomer political party, Economic Freedom Fighters (EFF). Their advert shows leader Julius Malema decked out in suit and tie, telling the audience why they should vote for his party. The SABC took exception to the advert’s call on people to ‘destroy e-tolls physically’ and cited this among its reasons for its rejection of the advert. Malema has since threatened mass action should the broadcaster not reverse its decision.
The SABC walks a fine tightrope at the best of times, but in the run-up to the election especially, it needs to steer clear of favouring one party over another. And this is exactly what the politicians are decrying after the events of the last week or so.
The major news event of this year – the Oscar Pistorius trial – has already shown up South Africa’s prolific use of social media. The traditional media no longer have the same gatekeeper role on information as it used to, and as an organ of state, the SABC will need to be equitable and fair if it is to remain objective in its dealings with all political parties.
