The recent controversy surrounding the Communications Minister Solly Malatsi and the SABC Bill has finally been resolved, with cabinet members acknowledging that Malatsi’s decision to unilaterally withdraw the bill was not done with malicious intent. Deputy President Paul Mashatile has intervened by writing to parliament to overrule Malatsi’s attempt to withdraw the bill, emphasizing that it is an executive bill that requires proper procedures to be followed.
Cabinet spokesperson Khumbuzo Ntshaveni clarified that Malatsi’s actions were not driven by malice, but rather a result of the minister still familiarizing himself with the standard protocols. The bill, which addresses issues of financial sustainability, editorial independence, and political interference at the public broadcaster, will now proceed as planned.
In a separate issue, the ANC and Democratic Alliance are at odds over the Basic Education Laws Amendment (Bela) Act, signed by President Cyril Ramaphosa but facing delays due to contentious clauses. Basic Education Minister Siviwe Gwarube came under fire for signing an agreement with labor union Solidarity without proper consultation with other coalition partners in the cabinet clearing house. Mashatile criticized Gwarube for acting in bad faith, but Gwarube clarified that the agreement did not replace the ongoing consultations on the Act.
Ntshaveni revealed that neither the president nor the deputy president were informed of the agreement with Solidarity, raising concerns about the transparency of the process. Despite the disagreements and criticisms, it is essential for all parties involved to uphold their commitments and cooperate with the official procedures to ensure the smooth implementation of legislation.
Overall, these recent incidents highlight the complexities and challenges of governance and decision-making within a unity government. It is crucial for all stakeholders to communicate effectively, follow established protocols, and prioritize the best interests of the public when navigating contentious legislative processes.
