We can't call for removal of Faith Muthambi

We can't call for removal of Faith Muthambi - SABC inquiry chair

8 March 2017 8:21 AM

Yesterday the National Assembly adopted the report of the parliamentary inquiry into the South African Broadcasting Corporation (SABC) board.

Among other things, the report calls for President Jacob Zuma to reconsider Communications Minister Faith Muthambi's position.

Parliamentary Ad Hoc Committee chair probing the affairs of the SABC, Vincent Smith, says they found that Muthambi did not register the memorandum of incorporation. This is a document used to direct business and regulate the delegations of authority.

There was also the issue around the undue influence in terms of the appointment of COO [Hlaudi Motsoeneng] permanently. We found there were instances where Minister Faith Muthambi overstepped her mark in terms of what the board should do and what she should do.
— Vincent Smith, chairperson of the Parliament Ad Hoc Committee probing SABC

However, Smith says they cannot call for the firing of Muthambi because it is the President who must look at the report and take whatever steps necessary.

He also says if the previous board or any individuals are guilty of criminal action or mismanagement they would still be held liable.

If we found that they misled Parliament, it can't be that because they are no longer board members, therefore, they can't be held accountable.
— Vincent Smith, chairperson of the Parliament Ad Hoc Committee probing SABC

The report was supported by all parties except the United Democratic Movement (UDM) which argued that former SABC COO Hlaudi Motsoeneng should have been called to testify before the committee.

Smith argues that there was no need to call Motsoeneng to find out whether the board was unfit or fit to carry the mandate of the SABC.

Listen to the full interview with Vincent Smith below...

Written by: Sinikiwe Mqadi