The South African Broadcasting Corporation (SABC) has expressed concern on Saturday over widely circulated audio-visual material showing one of its employees causing chaos on a FlySafair flight.
The incident, which took place on Boxing Day, December 26, involved a flight from Durban to Cape Town.
Videos shared on social media depict the woman arguing with flight attendants and demanding a drink.
The SABC confirmed that the individual captured in the footage was an employee at the public broadcaster.
“We regret this incident and always encourage our staff to uphold the SABC values of respect and integrity in all interactions,” the SABC said.
The public broadcaster also dismissed claims that the altercation would be broadcast on SABC News, addressing threats made by the employee during the incident.
“We would like to reiterate that SABC News is guided by the Editorial Code and maintains its editorial independence, and the decisions pertaining to all news items are made in the Newsroom and not influenced by non[1]editorial staff members. The SABC will use the relevant channels in line with its internal procedures to engage the staff member,” said the public broadcaster.
Meanwhile, the African National Congress (ANC) has also condemned the woman’s behavior after she invoked the party’s name to justify her actions.
In a statement, the ANC said: “Regardless of whether this individual is a member of the ANC, we unequivocally distance ourselves from such behavior. No person has the right to act in such an unacceptable manner, and certainly not while misusing the good name of the ANC.”
The party described the incident as “unruly and unbecoming,” saying that it goes against the values and principles of the movement.
“We have initiated an investigation into her membership status. However, even if it is confirmed that she is a member, her conduct is inexcusable and deeply embarrassing. The ANC will not allow its name to be dragged through the mud by individuals who fail to uphold the dignity and decorum expected of all South Africans, let alone members of our organization,” said the ANC.
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