This week's state of the nation address by SA President Thabo Mbeki has drawn its share of commentary, even before it's been delivered. The Media Monitoring Project has put forward a list of things it would like to see in the speech. These include the withdrawal of the film and Publications Act, a plan to revive Icasa – and the reinstatement of John Perlman.
The MMP writes:
Dear Mister President,
- We at the MMP submit the following wishes for the State of the Nation Address on Friday. These include:
- The Film and Publications Amendment bill of 2005 is withdrawn, with apologies.
- The Home Affairs offices will be allowed to concentrate and commit itself to its core tasks by moving the Film and Publications board to a more media-focused body. This body could potentially be the Department of Communications or ICASA.
- Announce an emergency action plan to reinvigorate, refocus and reiterate ICASA’s fundamental and independent role in regulating the broadcast and telecommunications environment.
- Continue to commit to developing media diversity and pluralism in South Africa through the introduction of revised legislation for the Media Development and Diversity Agency (MDDA), ensuring media industry doubles their contributions to the MDDA.
- Reaffirm the fundamental importance of a critical, balanced and fair public service broadcaster that strives to meet the needs of all people in South Africa.
- Ensure the Sexual Offenses Bill and Child Justice Bill are afforded the priority they deserve and with the necessary input are passed as a matter of urgency.
- Kindly request to the reinstatement of John Perlman to SAFM.
Thanking you in advance for your kind consideration.
Yours Sincerely,
The Media Monitoring Project (www.mediamonitoring.org.za)
