Break the Broadcast Monopoly: Support the Full Privatisation of the SABC
The South African Broadcasting Corporation (SABC) is on the brink of collapse—again. Years of financial mismanagement, political interference, and outdated funding models have left the public broadcaster unable to serve its mandate. It’s time for bold reform.
Free SA is calling on Parliament to fully privatise the SABC and liberate South Africa’s media landscape from state control. Privatisation means no more bailouts, no more political propaganda—just a media sector driven by innovation, independence, and public trust.
Complete the submission below to add your name to our submission that will be submitted to the Portfolio Committee on Communications and Digital Technologies on the 27th of June 2025.
This campaign closed on 27 June 2025
Key Concerns with the Current Model
Chronic Mismanagement: Decades of bailouts (R1.47bn in 2009, R3.2bn in 2019) have failed to bring stability or accountability. The SABC now faces a R7bn funding shortfall.
Political Capture: Editorial independence is routinely undermined by politically motivated appointments and censorship.
Outdated Revenue Models: TV licences are inefficient and regressive in a digital age where citizens consume content on-demand
Irrelevance in the Digital Era: Viewership is declining as South Africans turn to independent digital media for information and entertainment.
What We’re Advocating For
Free SA proposes a full and transparent privatisation of the SABC, accompanied by:
A competitive regulatory framework for media plurality
Reallocation of public funds to support internet access and independent media
Protection of journalistic freedom through strong media ethics and oversight
This is not just about reform—it’s about ensuring freedom of expression, access to diverse viewpoints, and ending the state’s control of public narratives.
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