Phat Joe jibe to cost R30k
BCCSA rules East Coast Radio must pay up for host’s ‘Down syndromish’ remark on air
THURSDAY MARCH 23 2017
EAST Coast Radio is set to pay R30 000 after the Broadcasting Complaints Commission of South Africa (BCCSA) fined the station for comments made by show host Phat Joe. The station came under fire when Phat Joe, real name Majota Khambule, said he was feeling “Down syndromish” when he forgot his words on air during his show.
BCCSA commissioner Linda Venter said she had considered the steps the station took to rectifying the situation, but it was ultimately responsible for what was expressed on air.
“In my opinion, the only relevant mitigating aspect in such a matter might have been sincere remorse shown by the presenter. I am not convinced that this transpired from his apologies,” Venter said.
“The maximum prescribed fine is R80 000. In light of previous contraventions by the same presenter, I believe it would be fair to order that the radio station pays a fine of R30 000 to the BCCSA on or before April 15.”
Janus Horn, a father whose two-yearold son was born with Down syndrome, demanded that action be taken against Khambule for his remark, which he said was “insensitive and in poor taste”.
After complaints from parents and the Down Syndrome Association, East Coast Radio apologised and Khambule was suspended for a week. In responding to complaints, station management said that Khambule had not intentionally tried to hurt or offend anyone. It also set up an interview between Khambule and the Down Syndrome Association in KwaZuluNatal.
However, the interview drew more criticism, with the association’s lawyers saying it wasn’t satisfied with his apology. When Khambule returned to the air, he again apologised and the station believed “it was in a more appropriate format”. East Coast Radio programming manager Zane Derbyshire said it had noted the ruling. “As a signatory of the BCCSA’s Code Of Conduct, we will respect the decision made and pay the fine,” Derbyshire said.