Bob Mabena, general manager of commercial radio at the SABC, says having suspended Mpofu on its show was not an act of defiance or done to create conflict. “Mpofu was on the show as a guest and not an employee.R
“Gareth Cliff interviews anyone who is in the public eye. The public has a right to know.”
Mpofu told Cliff that being the CEO of the public broadcaster is is a very important office. “It’s a really tough job, but I will fight for it.”
He added that the public broadcaster wields a lot of power and independence is crucial, “I believe the broadcaster needs to be independent. I have always tried to create a wall between politicians and the broadcaster. Politicians have power… but it’s our job to empower citizens.”
According to a media statement, Mpofu served court papers on June 19, in the Johannesburg High Court, for an order setting aside his third suspension by the SABC board in the space of two months.
The Johannesburg High Court had on two previous occasions reversed the suspension of Advocate Mpofu and the SABC was required to pay Mpofu’s legal costs.
The matter has been set down for hearing on June 24.
