Zikalala suspended for probe into misconduct

Dali Mpofu, the Group CEO of the SABC, has suspended the SABC's head of news, Snuki Zikalala, with immediate efect pending an investigation into allegations of serious misconduct.

Mpofu says Zikalala's suspension relates to the alleged leaking of sensitive information. He denied that it relates to reports regarding an internal SABC memorandum, alleging rifts between the SABC board and Mpofu that was leaked to the media. "It is actually unrelated to the media speculation around this issue. So timing in that sense was quite strangely unfortunate.

"This is a matter that has to do with information that we received about sensitive documents of the organisation.

"Obviously I don't want to get into the merits of the matter because of fairness to the employee. He must be given a chance to defend himself, if and when we do have a disciplinary enquiry."

Zikalala says he will not comment on the matter, following an agreement with Mpofu.

The SABC says the outcome of the investigation is likely to result in a formal disciplinary enquiry.