The content on this page is not written by Polity.org.za, but is supplied by third parties. This content does not constitute news reporting by Polity.org.za.

The Congress of South African Trade Unions has noted with concern allegations, reported in the Sunday Times, that the SABC has banned television and radio coverage of former president Thabo Mbeki.

The Sunday Times reported that Phil Molefe, SABC ‘head of news', told a meeting with senior news executives, that Mbeki's appearance on SABC television undermined ANC leader President Jacob Zuma, and the ANC headquarters had instructed him not to broadcast any interviews with Mbeki or any items about him.

COSATU has also noted the SABC's subsequent denial of the charge, which spokesperson Kaizer Kganyago "rejects with the contempt it deserves".

Despite this denial, however, COSATU is still worried, given the number of disturbing stories of similar examples of political pressure being exerted on SABC journalists, and the still unexplained sudden resignation of SABC Radio Head of News, Mapule Mbhalati, after she was allegedly suspended for airing a statement by the Board nullifying the invalid appointment of Phil Molefe to head SABC News.

COSATU campaigned strongly against the factional manipulation of the public broadcaster in the name of the government led by Thabo Mbeki. If it is true that the same practices are now being used against him, COSATU will oppose them just as strongly.

It is a grave threat to South Africa's constitutional democracy if the SABC can suppress coverage of individuals or organisations that governments disagree with. If it is Mbeki today, who will it be tomorrow? The public broadcaster must reflect the diverse views of all South Africans and never become the mouthpiece of a faction.

COSATU calls on the SABC Board to state categorically that it will abide by the country's constitution and insist that its officials open up the airwaves to all citizens and organisations of South Africa.