Business Day reported that the Office of the President did not disclose details of Motlanthe’s concerns about constitutionality, but said “the president has expressed reservation on the unconstitutionality of certain sections of the bills after careful consideration.”

Those opposed to the Film & Publications Amendment Bill warned that it is unconstitutional because it discriminates between different categories of publishers and infringes the right to freedom of expression.

Meanwhile the President has also not signed the Broadcast Amendment Bill. The bill is expected to be sent back to Parliament because of its failure to include a provision for a due process of inquiry before the dismissal of the board. This move alarmed leading African National Congress (ANC) members and its alliance partners as they expected Motlanthe to swiftly sign the controversial bill into law.

The ANC is concerned that the delay in signing the Broadcasting Amendment Bill will prevent it from removing the SABC directors during the current session of Parliament. This would mean the board picked by former president Thabo Mbeki would remain in position at the national broadcaster during the upcoming elections.

Source: MISA South Africa

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