The IFP condemns in the strongest possible terms the latest incident of alleged censorship at the SABC, following reports that the SABC has canned a television interview with cartoonist Jonathan Shapiro, better known as Zapiro.

IFP Spokesperson on Communications, Ms Liezl van der Merwe MP, said, "South Africans should have a public broadcaster not a state broadcaster. Yet we continue to see the politicisation of the SABC, which is extremely concerning. The irregularities in editorial practice and policies in the SABC are glaring."

Van der Merwe added, "As the IFP we have taken to the streets to demand fairness from the SABC. We did so on behalf of all South Africans, who have a right not to be force-fed political propaganda. We welcome the investigation that has been launched by the Independent Communications Authority of South Africa (ICASA) in respect of the canning of the Metro FM show and we hope that they will also investigate this latest incident at the SABC."

The IFP notes the conspicuous silence from the Minister of Communications on all of these crises at the SABC.

"While the SABC suffers one scandal after the next we have heard no clear indication from the Minister of what she intends to do to ensure that the SABC regains its credibility. Where is the leadership?" asked van der Merwe.

The SABC has the responsibility of being the true voice of all South Africans, without fear or favour. It has failed its mandate.

"Government should therefore not be surprised when citizens suggest that the SABC be moved to Luthuli House, and funded through the ANC’s coffers, rather than with taxpayers’ money," concluded van der Merwe.