The verdict is in.
Parliament's Communications Portfolio Committee has completed the task of selecting 12 people that they recommend for the new SABC Board after
last week's interviews of the short listed candidates.
The good news: nobody died.
The BAD news:
Isidingo's Jack Devnarain, who was short listed, isn't one of the chosen 12. It's a deeply disappointing state of affairs.
The tragedy
No-one can convince us that he doesn't have the right credentials because he does:
His most notable credential is the fact that he's starred on an SABC show for 15 years. He's an integral part of the SABC's process and product and knows what needs to be
known.
As the National Chairperson of South Africa's Guild of Actors, he represents our talent. He's the bridge between the suits of the corporation and those who bring our shows to life.
There are so many issues that impact on actors and he would have been able to speak up for them. The fact that he hasn't been awarded a place on the board is very concerning as a result.
He's a star so he's out there and visible and in touch with viewers, which makes him accountable and transparent, which is
exactly what we need.
He would have injected a burst of glam and pizzazz into the board, which it really needs. Enough of the grey corridors, stuffy conference rooms and bland, boring image! It's a board that's supposed to be in charge of our entertainment and Jack's presence would have made it feel as if it is.
But no, none of these factors were "enough" and it's beyond madness.
The board
As for who did land a spot... these are the 12
contestants selected (click the links with their names to see their CVs):
Nomvuyiso Batyi
Rachel Kalidass
Khanyisile Kweyama
Bongumusa Makhathini
Michael Markovitz
John Matisonn
Dinkwanyane Mohuba
Krish Naidoo
Jack Phalane
Febbe Potgieter-Gqubule
Victor Rambau
Mathatha Tsedu
These 12 are going to be recommended to the National Assembly who will then submit them to the President who will do the official appointment.
The game of SABC Survivor starts...
now!
How do you feel? Are you happy with the 12?