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The Democratic Alliance (DA) will write to the SABC Board Chairperson, Dr Ben Ngubane, to request that the reason for the dismissal of Minister Blade Nzimande's wife, Phumele Ntombela-Nzimande, as the SABC's Chief People Officer be made public.

SABC spokesperson Kaizer Kganyago has refused to give a reason, saying the matter is confidential. Clearly, that is not right. The public has the right to know upon what basis a decision like this has been taken. If any wrongdoing occurred, it should not be hidden from public scrutiny. The impression created is that, because of Ms Ntombela-Nzimande’s political connections, the reason for her dismissal is being kept under wraps.

We believe that if the SABC do not provide clarity on this matter right away, then it will be incumbent upon the portfolio committee on communications to call Dr Ngubane to address the committee and explain the reason for Ms Ntombela-Nzimande’s dismissal.