Speaker, Cope is very concerned that the SABC is again suffering as a result of the clamour for control of financial resources and the airwaves by feuding factions in the ANC alliance. Elements in the executive management are flouting the rules and regulations to have cronies appointed to take control of news and current affairs in the run-up to the local government elections.
It is indefensible that within a mere four years a mink and manure elite has been established at the SABC, whilst middle management and workers are keeping programmes on the air. This is substantiated with hard facts and figures, for example a 29% increase in the head count at the SABC, but a 128% increase in the wage bill. How do we explain to the poor that the head of news earns a bigger salary than President Zuma?
Cope condemns the ANC's political meddling, which undermines the efforts of the SABC board to restore sound governance systems and financial propriety to the public broadcaster. The SABC belongs to all South Africans, not to the ANC! South Africans pay licence fees, and their taxes have bailed out a bankrupt SABC. Cope insists that the board makes a presentation to the portfolio committee within the next 10 days, in full view of the public and the media.
The Minister cannot resolve the crisis. He is conflicted as a result of his friendship with the group chief executive officer, the board chairperson and the head of news and his close alliance with the MK veterans. Thank you. [Interjections.] [Time expired.][Applause.]