The SABC has come under fire over the application of rules and policies.
Image: Karen Sandison / Independent Newspapers
The SABC is facing mounting internal criticism over the appointment of an acting programmes manager at SAfm, with employees alleging inconsistent application of company policies and raising broader concerns about funding and staff treatment.
Several employees told Independent Newspapers that the broadcaster recently released staff members over the age of 60, only to appoint veteran broadcaster Ferdinand Mabalane, who is also over 60, to an acting management role.
“The SABC recently released people who are over 60 years old but they recently hired Ferdinand Mabalane to be an acting programmes manager at SAfm. Why were people over 60 let go, and he was hired?” one employee said.
“It doesn’t make sense. They need to explain what makes him an exception to the rules.”
Employees have also questioned whether proper procedures were followed in filling the acting role, claiming that such positions are typically filled internally on a temporary basis.
“We are struggling to understand why rules are being bent and broken to accommodate him,” another employee said, adding that the appointment appears to contradict internal policy.
Concerns have also been raised about the continued presence of senior presenters such as Ashraf Garda, who is also over 60.
“It appears there are people to whom the rules and policies don’t apply, and this is demoralising staff,” a source said.
In response, SABC spokesperson Vuyo Mthembu said appointments are made in line with internal governance processes.
“Vacant positions within the organisation are filled in line with internal governance, taking into account operational requirements and the need to ensure continuity in key roles,” Mthembu said.
He added that the broadcaster continues to utilise experienced professionals beyond retirement age where necessary.
“The SABC employs independent contractors over the age of 60 in various areas due to their experience and specialist skills,” he said.
The SABC did not directly confirm whether Mabalane was appointed from outside the organisation.
The staffing concerns come amid growing frustration over how government funding is allocated within the broadcaster.
Employees claim that while the SABC received more than R700 million in state funding, a significant portion, reportedly around R200 million, was allocated to Channel Africa, leaving the remaining stations to share a smaller pool.
“We don’t understand how they made that determination. What makes Channel Africa so special to receive the largest budget?” one employee said.
The issue has become particularly contentious as radio presenters enter contract negotiations, with some alleging they have been told there is no room for salary increases.
“Inflation is going up and our salaries must remain stagnant. How is that even possible?” the source added.
The SABC said the funding forms part of a R704 million allocation from the Department of Communications and Digital Technologies under the Medium-Term Expenditure Framework, spread over three years from 2025.
“It is important to note that this allocation is a continuation of a long-standing commitment by government to support public service content,” Mthembu said.
He added that the funds are ringfenced and used specifically for public interest programming, including children’s, educational, and religious content, as well as support for Channel Africa.
“These funds are being used strictly for the purposes for which they were allocated… particularly to ensure that the corporation continues to deliver quality educational content, especially to underserved communities,” he said.
karabo.ngoepe@inl.co.za