Minister to go back to court over SABC

COMMUNICATIONS Minister Faith Muthambi says Hlaudi Motsoeneng is still the best man to run the SABC – and she has gone back to court to prove it.

The move is being made despite public protector Thuli Madonsela finding that Motsoeneng had lied about his qualifications.

Civil society groups have also questioned Motsoeneng’s leadership – particularly as a result of the public broadcaster’s decision not to show footage of protesters destroying property.

Yesterday, Muthambi filed an application for leave to appeal a Western Cape High Court ruling that invalidated Motsoeneng’s appointment.

In papers, she says the high court made a number of errors of fact, and she wants the Supreme Court of Appeal (SCA) to overturn the ruling.

Muthambi argues that, as a minister, it is her prerogative to appoint Motsoeneng.

Muthambi’s decision to appeal the case comes after Judge Dennis Davis refused an application for leave to appeal his earlier ruling in the high court. This invalidated Motsoeneng’s appointment.

The latest move to retain Motsoeneng drew immediate criticism.

The DA said there was “a laundry list of infractions” involving Motsoeneng and the party was confident the SCA would dismiss the application.