On 26 July, the Labour Court ruled that the South African Broadcasting Corporation (SABC) must reinstate the four journalists who were sacked by the public broadcaster.
Eyewitness News reported that the court found the SABC acted unlawfully when it dismissed the senior reporters for voicing their concerns over the public broadcaster’s controversial editorial policy.
Judge Andre Van Niekerk also granted an interdict prohibiting the public broadcaster from instituting disciplinary hearings against the group. He also says those responsible for the dismissals have five days to submit an affidavit, explaining why they shouldn’t be held personally liable for the legal fees.
Jacques Steenkamp, Krivani Pillay, Suna Venter and Foeta Krige were fired after they voiced concerns over the public broadcaster’s decision to ban visuals of the destruction of property during protests.
The SABC has since rescinded its decision following a recommendation from the Independent Communications Authority of South Africa and a court challenge by the Helen Suzman Foundation.
The union has also called for COO Hlaudi Motsoeneng to be held personally liable for the journalists’ legal costs.
Source: Eyewitness News
