A report in a Scandinavian newspaper alleging that a Consortium involving the
Scandinavian Broadcaster, Kinnetic, and the
Association of Ex-Political Prisoners will gain an advantage over other applicants in its
attempt to buy one of the SABC regional stations or secure a broadcasting licence because
of my involvement with the Association of Ex-Political Prisoners has been brought to my
attention. The conclusion made in the report is totally incorrect.
This morning I put the facts to the Portfolio Committee as follows:
The Conference which formed a part of the reunion of Ex-Robben Island prisoners noted with great concern the dire straits that many ex-political prisoners are in. Thousands have been unemployed for decades, many have been rendered unemployable through harrasment, bannings and banishments. A large number is suffering from various afflictions related to imprisonment and other deprivations. The Conference decided that the responsibility of finding ways to address the plight of ex political prisoners.
In pursuance of this objective the Association of Ex-Prisoners has met a number of times to consider projects that can generate funds that can be utilised to address the problems of ex-political prisoners. Projects dealt with include the Robben Island lime quarry stone, input into the Special Pensions Bill, the consideration of a broadcast licence in a joint venture with Kinnetic.
At no time has it been my understanding or that of the Association of Ex-Polictical Prisoners that my presence in the Steering committee will or is intended to advantage the joint venture between the Association and Kinnetic. I have at all times, kept a proper distance between myself and those working on this project on the understanding that the application will be made to the IBA which will take its decision in due course.
I regret the fact that some has found reason to suggest an act of impropriety on my part in this matter. The circumstances of ex-political prisoners call for South African society to take serious measures in order to deal with this problem. I availed myself to serve in this committee moved by this situation unaware that projects they were to consider were going to be used to cast aspersion against my character or prevent the Association from taking available opportunities.
Considering all of the issues raised above, I have decided to withdraw from the Steering Committee of the Association of Ex-Political Prisoners with immediate effect.
The plight of ex-political prisoners and any attempts to address them will remain closest to my heart. I will certainly find other ways of assisting in the search for solutions to this problem.
Issued by: Parliament of The Republic of South Africa
Issued by: Saki Macozoma MP Chairperson: Portfolio Committee on Communications
PO Box 15
CAPE TOWN 8000
6 MARCH 1966
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