Turn of events as SABC reinstates dismissed journalists
The SABC has reinstated seven journalists it dismissed for criticising its editorial decision not to broadcast violence during protests.
The Johannesburg Labour Court yesterday found the dismissals were unlawful and ordered the SABC to reinstate four of the journalists who approached the court.
After much uncertainty this morning all seven can now go back to work.
The seven SABC staffers are Krivani Pillay, Jacques Steenkamp, Foeta Krige, Suna Venter, Thandeka Gqubule, Busisiwe Ntuli and Lukhanyo Calata.
SABC spokesperson Kaizer Kganyago has confirmed the decision.
"SABC management instructed our lawyers to not continue with the appeal we announced. Management has decided to reinstate all the seven employees who were fired."
It is understood that the position of independent contractor Vuyo Mvoko - who is part of the so-called SABC 8 - remains unchanged and his legal team is preparing to take his case to court tomorrow.
Mvoko, who penned a strongly-worded front page lead on the SABC, has not been scheduled to work since the publication hit the streets.
Solidarity's Dirk Hermann has welcomed the SABC's decision.
"The reinstatement of the seven SABC journalists is a victory for the workers and constitutional principles. The SABC received good legal advice and we're glad they listened."
The trade union represented four of the dismissed workers in their Labour Court battle.