Media Monitoring Africa (MMA) is stunned by reports in media that suggest the Group Executive Officer (GCEO) of the SABC Ms Lulama Mokhobo may have resigned from her position. “If true the move would see any semblance of continuity in the senior leadership of the SABC smashed to smithereens.” Said William Bird Director of Media Monitoring Africa.

If the report is accurate, it would mean that the SABC has five of it top senior management positions effectively vacant.  As things stand four vacant positions have been filled with ‘Acting’ titles.  The Acting COO, Acting CFO, Acting Head of News and the Acting Head of Strategy. The resignation of the GCEO would be a potentially devastating blow to the SABC.

Equally concerning is the fact that in some cases the positions have been vacant for several years.  Towards the end of November 2013 the public was assured that the stalemate in the appointment of a COO would be resolved as a result of negotiations with former COO Mvuso Mbebe.  To date no further information has been given to the public on progress in resolving the stalemate or lack thereof.

That we are approximately three and a half months away from a national election makes the possible resignation all the more damaging to the SABC.  Given the role and importance of the SABC in informing and educating citizen sin the run up to the elections it is critical that key positions are appropriately filled to ensure sufficient oversight and effective operations.

MMA is currently in discussions with its partners SOS Support Broadcasting Coalition and its members and together we are investigating a wide range of options for possible action.

At this point we call on the SABC and the GCEO to confirm or deny the resignation, and if true for the reasons for her resignation to be made public.

For more information contact:
William Bird 082 887 1370  or Thandi Smith 073 470 7306

William Bird
Director
Ashoka & Linc Fellow
Media Monitoring Africa
Tel: +2711 788 1278
Mob:+2782 887 1370