Hon Deputy Speaker, Deputy President, hon members, my colleagues and our guests, it is with great and utmost humility that I present to this House, for consideration, the report of the Portfolio Committee on Communications, which was adopted on 17 September. This report includes, amongst other things, the finalised list of candidates to serve on the SABC's board.
Indeed, with the appointment of the SABC Board, the process to rebuild the public broadcaster has begun in earnest. It is therefore safe to say that the ANC's resolution in relation to the SABC is on track. This is but a foundation block towards ensuring that we achieve the objectives of the public broadcaster as articulated in the charter of the corporation and later in the ANC's 53rd National Conference resolutions.
I am convinced that the calibre of candidates that we interviewed bears testament to the quality and depth that our country is blessed with. More importantly, it reflects the kind of patriotism that is needed to drive our country forward. It is indeed unfortunate that, because of the limited number of candidates, all the candidates could not be accommodated. [Interjections.]
From a procedural point of view, the committee advertised and called for nominations. A total of 147 nominations were received, and 37 were short- listed. Unfortunately, there was one withdrawal and only 36 candidates were interviewed. Following the interview of the 36 candidates, from 20 to 22 August and later from 27 to 28 August in Johannesburg, the committee resolved that this House, in accordance with section 13 of the Broadcasting Act, recommends the following candidates to the President, to be appointed as nonexecutive members to the SABC board. Are you ready for the names?
The names are: Ms Rachel Kalidaas, Ms Ellen Zandile Tshabalala, Mr King Bonakele, Mr Vusumusi Mavuso, Ms Nomvuyo Mhlakaza, Mr Ronnie Lubisi, Prof Bongani Khumalo, Prof Obert Maguvhe, Mr Krish Naidoo, Dr Aaron Tshifdzumba, Ms Noluthando Gosa and Ms Hope Zinde. [Interjections.]
Say it loud; say it loud! We are the ruling party and we should be proud of that. [Interjections.] [Applause.] Say it loud!
In an article written by Thabo Mokone on 18 September 2013, which appeared in the Times Live, it seems that there is consensus about this board within the labour movement and also the Save Our SABC, SOS, Coalition. He wrote that, according to the Communications Workers Union, CWU:
The board members are the right people for the job. They are experienced enough, well equipped and skilled. This is a very strong team.
He also wrote that, according to the SOS Coalition:
Many of those recommended are extremely experienced in the turnaround of institutions. The SABC's problems are structural and historical, and the new board would only be part of the solution. [Interjections.]
That was not us, so what more do you want? As the ruling party, we deliver. That is why the labour movement and the coalition are supporting this board. [Interjections.]
Indeed, I must once again express my sincere gratitude to the committee members and the support staff of the committee for their commitment, diligence and sterling work during the entire process. [Interjections.]