23 July 1999 TO: All newsdesks Media statement for immediate release

RE: SABC refuses information to FXI for editorial independence enquiry

Despite an intensive advertising campaign calling for public comment on its exercise of freedom of expression and editorial independence, the SA Broadcasting Corporation has refused to provide vital information to enable the Freedom of Expression Institute to compile its submission.

The SABC's invitation to the public is part of a special inquiry into ‘the SABC's editorial policy and freedom of expression' being carried out by a ‘Special Task Team' it has established. Among the matters the broadcaster has requested public comment on are ‘any external/internal influences or practices which might compromise the impartiality and integrity of the corporation'; ‘freelance contracts and appointment practices', freedom of expression and the free flow of ideas' and ‘journalistic integrity and editorial independence'.

However, when the FXI requested information from the head of the news service about the chain of command in the news room, which posts were permanent and which contractual and the reasons for the difference, it was refused by the SABC's chief legal adviser. The adviser Ronnie Bracks stated that the SABC's view was that none of the documents sought were required by the FXI to assist it to complete its submission and that there was no Constitutional obligation on the SABC to do so.

The FXI is appalled at the refusal which shows that the public broadcaster is not prepared to allow public scrutiny of employment practices which could have a direct impact on the editorial freedom and independence in the news room. The FXI believes that if there are a large number of contractual employees in the news room whose contracts are subject to the control of management these employees could be forced to tow the management line. The FXI therefore sought an organogram on the chain of command, job descriptions, and a breakdown on permanent appointments, fixed term contracts and service contracts.

The refusal of information to the FXI suggests that the management of the SABC is not serious about the inquiry and that what it is really seeking is an opportunity to quell public concerns and whitewash its activities. The FXI believes that in the light of SA's new democracy, the Bill of Rights and the state's commitment to transparency and accountability the SABC would respect the public's right of access to information and open up channels of communication throughout the organisation rather than be obstructionist and conduct its operations in secret.

The FXI believes that the public broadcaster as a legal duty to provide the information requested, especially as it is directly pertinent to the questions the Task Team has set itself to answer. The FXI is therefore, seeking legal opinion on the issue and if necessary will take legal action against the corporation. The FXI will also seek an extension of the deadline for submissions because of the SABC's refusal to cooperate. The FXI calls on the SABC Board to take urgent action to ensure that proper access to information is provided and that inquiry is indeed bona fide.

Contact: Laura Pollecutt, Executive Director (083-604-1073) Raymond Louw, Deputy Chairperson (646-8790)