FXI complaint against SABC back on agenda

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Danette Breitenbach

From 12-16 November, the Complaints and Compliance Committee (CCC) will hold public hearings regarding a complaint lodged by the Freedom of Expression Institute (FXI) against the SABC for the broadcaster's alleged blacklisting of certain political commentators and journalists in 2006.

This matter was initially heard by the CCC in 2007 which handed down judgement on 18 June 2009 in which it decided that it did not have jurisdiction over alleged internal journalistic malpractices and the omission to report to the public on it.

The FXI contested this ruling and took it to the South Gauteng High Court on review. The High Court reviewed the CCC's decision and made an order on 21 January 2011 in the following terms:

that the decision of the CCC of 18 June 2009 dismissing FXI's complaint against SABC be set aside
the matter be referred back to the CCC for a formal hearing
when hearing the matter again, the CCC must not be constituted of any members who had participated in the original decision reviewed and set aside the CCC is now ready to hear the matter in compliance with the order of the South Gauteng High Court.

The hearings will take place at Block C, Presentation Room (ICASA), 164 Katherine Street, Sandton, Johannesburg from 9:30am.

For more, contact Lindisa Mabulu on tel +27(0)11 566 3217 or email az.gro.asaci@ulubaml.