Communications and Digital Technologies Minister Solly Malatsi has accused National Assembly Speaker Thoko Didiza of delaying the withdrawal of the controversial SABC Bill.
Malatsi alleges that Didiza is breaching parliamentary rules by not expediting the process. Speaking to the Sunday Times, he stated, “The Speaker cannot decide whether or not to withdraw the Bill. If the minister writes to the Speaker to say withdraw this Bill… there is no other option for the Speaker to do any other thing.”
Earlier in November, Malatsi, a DA minister, formally notified Didiza of his decision to withdraw the Bill. This effectively halted public hearings in Parliament regarding the legislation.
Malatsi has criticized the Bill for failing to address urgent issues required to stabilize the SABC. The legislation has faced widespread opposition from political parties, civil society organizations, and broadcasters. Key concerns include the Bill’s failure to resolve funding challenges at the public broadcaster and provisions that would increase ministerial control over board appointments.