SAFM Issues Apology Following Controversial Interview with Jacinta Ngobese-Zuma

In a notable development, SAFM has issued an official apology after the Broadcasting Complaints Commission ruled that the station breached its broadcasting code during an interview with Jacinta Ngobese-Zuma, leader of the March and March party. The interview, which aired in June, included several unverified claims regarding immigrants and crime in South Africa.

The complaints were initiated by social justice activist Christopher Rutledge, who pointed out that Ngobese-Zuma made serious allegations without any evidence, including claims that 60% of serious crimes in Gauteng were committed by foreign nationals and that foreign military bases were operating in the country. The commission found that the broadcaster failed to adequately challenge these assertions or clarify that they were unverified and disputed.

Broadcasting Code Violations

Advocate Ben Winks, the commissioner, noted that the SABC had not marked Ngobese-Zuma's statements as opinion, nor did it inform listeners that such claims were contested. The ruling emphasized that under the Free-to-Air Code, serious allegations must be presented with a clear indication of their evidential basis or lack thereof. Winks stated that because the broadcaster had previously aired a segment disputing these claims, it was especially negligent in allowing Ngobese-Zuma's statements to go unchallenged.

Implications of the Ruling

Winks highlighted the serious nature of the allegations made by Ngobese-Zuma, warning that they could lead to discrimination and harm against immigrants. The ruling serves as a reminder for broadcasters to thoroughly scrutinize claims made by public figures, especially in the context of escalating misinformation, particularly as elections approach. The SABC has committed to using this incident as a learning opportunity to improve editorial practices.

Source: www.dailymaverick.co.za