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Minister of Communications, Ms Faith Muthambi noted the decision by the South African Broadcasting Corporation (SABC) not to publicise any content displaying violent protests and the wanton vandalism and burning of the infrastructure. The department respects the editorial independence of the SABC, the Minister of Communications welcomes any positive action by the public broadcaster that seeks to condemn the vandalising of infrastructure and the destruction of schools, and public infrastructure.

“We unequivocally condemn the destruction of public and private infrastructure. It is our belief that the decision by the public broadcaster not to show footage of people burning public institutions, such as schools and libraries, in any of its news bulletins, will go a long way to discourage attention seeking anarchists,” said Muthambi.

One of the SABC mandates is to prioritise nation building and the promotion of social cohesion. It is therefore important that the institution is supported in its endeavours to promote social stability, national identity, patriotism and love for our country. “I believe the decision not to air footage of burning public institutions was taken in the spirit of social cohesion and Nation Building, not censorship as purported,” added Muthambi.

Minister Muthambi commends communities, and civil society organisations who continues to work with government and guard jealously against vandalism of public infrastructure.

Issued by GCIS on behalf of the Ministry of Communications