EFF takes on radio presenter over slur

Zama Ngcobo of Ukhozi FM is in trouble over an offensive statement about the EFF. File picture: Independent Media

Zama Ngcobo of Ukhozi FM is in trouble over an offensive statement about the EFF. File picture: Independent Media

Published Jun 17, 2016

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Durban - Ukhozi FM presenter Zama Ngcobo is in hot water as the SABC has instituted an investigation against her about an offensive statement she allegedly made against EFF leader Julius Malema on air.

The Vuka Mzaka Mzansi Breakfast Show presenter allegedly told her listeners early this week that EFF members in the Eastern Cape were leaving the party.

She said Malema had used party funds for his wedding, and had never done anything for young people.

Ngcobo’s statement enraged party members who held a meeting with the SABC management on Tuesday calling for her to be fired.

SABC spokesman Kaizer Kganyago said the SABC was investigating Ngcobo.

“Processes are internal and we don’t expose our internal issues to the public.”

Kganyago said for a full investigation - the outcome of which could be made public - the EFF should report the matter to the Broadcasting Complaints Commission (BCC).

“Once the matter has been reported to the BCC, then they would call us and ask us to come and give our side of the story. If we are found guilty, then we will take action,” he said.

Kganyago said part of the broadcaster’s investigation would entail listening to tapes to ascertain exactly what Ngcobo had said about Malema.

EFF spokesman Mbuyiseni Ndlozi said Ngcobo’s statement had confirmed his suspicions that she was an ANC Youth League member.

Ndlozi said presenters were expected not to take sides in “the political game”.

“Presenters ought to be neutral, they ought to allow the circulation of ideas, but they ought to have given us a right to reply.

“If they are discussing the EFF they ought to call us in so that we can defend ourselves. We have a right of reply in terms of the Broadcasting Complaints Act.

“We will be submitting a formal complaint to the SABC,” he said.

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The Mercury

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