SABC on enforcing editorial independence
The South African Broadcasting Corporation (SABC) reports that it has taken action to investigate possible breaches in its editorial code. This pertains to the manner in which the coverage of the VBS Mutual Bank (VBS) story was handled by its newsroom in Polokwane. The decision is in line with the on-going efforts to ensure that the SABC News’ editorial principles of independence and impartiality are upheld at all times. Moreover, it is also to safeguard the integrity and credibility of its various news products, by ensuring that it delivers content that is fact-driven.
The SABC spokesperson, Neo Momodu comments: “Should the investigation in Polokwane reveal evidence that the SABC News service’s editorial principles of independence and impartiality have been compromised, such violations will be dealt with decisively.”
Momodu added that “any selective coverage perceived or real, poses a real danger to the editorial character of the SABC News brand and therefore any interference, external or internal in our editorial decision making will not be tolerated.”
The SABC remains committed to providing the South African public with news content that is accurate and balanced, and in a way that is responsible, transparent and unrestrained.