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The Portfolio Committee on Communications has conveyed its deepest and heartfelt condolences to the family, friends and media fraternity on the death of Ms Suna Venter, who worked for the South African Broadcasting Corporation (SABC).

“The Committee is aware of the extent to which her death is linked to the intimidation and torture she was subjected to when she formed part of the SABC 8. She will be laid to rest tomorrow, 4 July 2017. May her soul rest in eternal peace,” said Mr Humphrey Maxegwana, the Committee Chairperson.

The Committee believes that Ms Venter has left an indelible legacy of speaking truth to power.

The Committee also condemned in the strongest possible terms the latest threats directed at a journalist, Mr Peter Bruce, by a mob masquerading as lobby group.

The Committee welcomed the announcement by the Minister of Police over the weekend that a protest outside Mr Bruce’s house was regrettable. The Minister also promised to deal swiftly and harshly with further threats to journalists.

The Committee has followed closely the work of the Ad Hoc Committee on the SABC Board Inquiry and read its report, in which the protection of journalists was emphasised following the threats directed at the SABC 8.

Issued by Parliamentary Communication Services on behalf of the Chairperson of the Portfolio Committee on Communications, Humphrey Maxegwana