Malatsi denies deliberate underfunding for SABC LGE coverage

Communications Minister Solly Malatsi has dismissed claims that the South African Broadcasting Corporation (SABC) deliberately withheld funds for their Local Government Elections coverage. Speaking at a Parliamentary Portfolio Committee meeting, Malatsi addressed the broadcaster's readiness for the upcoming elections on November 4th.

Despite previous discussions of the SABC's financial struggles, no decision has been made regarding additional funding. During the meeting, allegations emerged that the funding uncertainty was intentional and could lead to certain political parties being underrepresented in the coverage. Malatsi firmly denied these claims, emphasizing that there was no intention to unfairly limit coverage for any political party.

He stated, "No party, whether in government or outside of government, would be in favor of a situation that does not promote fair and equitable coverage, because nobody stands to benefit from that. So, there is no decision made to gag any political party. It would be inappropriate to do so." The SABC maintains it is prepared to cover the elections, despite seeking R120 million from the National Treasury to support their coverage efforts.