By: Xolani Khumalo
The Activists and Citizens Forum has expressed deep concern over reports published in a Sunday newspaper alleging that the ANC and the Presidency have exerted pressure on the South African Broadcasting Corporation (SABC) to halt the popular talk show, Face the Nation.
According to the report, the alleged reason for the move is that the programme’s presenter, Clement Manyathela, is regarded in some quarters as being overly critical and negative in his line of questioning, particularly towards government officials and political leaders.
Spokesperson Dennis Bloem described the reported decision as reckless and warned that it could have serious implications for media freedom in South Africa. He said any attempt to interfere with editorial content at the SABC undermines the broadcaster’s mandate to operate independently and in the public interest.
“The SABC belongs to the people of South Africa, not to any political party or the government of the day,” Bloem said. “Its role is to inform, educate and empower citizens through fair, balanced and critical reporting.”
The Forum further cautioned that silencing or sidelining robust platforms such as Face the Nation risks weakening public accountability, particularly at a time when the country faces significant political and socio-economic challenges. Talk shows that allow for rigorous debate and questioning are widely seen as vital spaces for democratic engagement.
