Probe operation of channel

IT is time for the Human Rights Commission and the minister responsible for communications to look into the affairs and actions of the Gupta-run TV news channel, ANN7.

Its blatant racism, propaganda, disinformation, half truths, hate speech and alleged deliberate outright lies are fuelling race-related tensions in South Africa. This is something that this country cannot afford.

Its well co-ordinated attack on Pravin Gordhan, Thuli Madonsela, and so-called “white colonial media” and “white-controlled colonial capital” is dividing the nation and increasing hate speech among the different races.

Its daily “discussions”, involving socalled “experts” in business, politics and trade unions, are also increasing the volatile atmosphere in the country.

Its continued defence of, and propagating the ideals and views of organisations like the Black First Land First (BLF) and Progressive Professionals Forum (PPF) – without counter arguments – is also increasing feelings of mistrust and hate. It is obviously preparing the groundwork for “radical transformation” which will undoubtedly lead to further problems, especially as the yearend approaches and the ANC meets to elect a “new” (radical?) leader.

The divisions in the ruling party and among South Africans are increasing daily.

The people of South Africa, together with organisations and the media, must not allow the country to be captured by a small group of powerful, money-hungry politicians and their greedy, self-serving supporters, all with their own “secret” agendas.

Rouen Pallas, Kamma Ridge, Port Elizabeth