Thusi parted ways with the national broadcaster after a dispute over her contractual obligations.
SABC Chief Operations Officer Hlaudi Motsoeneng was reportedly unhappy about Thusi’s decision to work for a rival media house as the host of a new show called ‘Lip sync’.
Motsoeneng allegedly told the presenter that ‘new rules prohibited SABC talent from working for rival media houses without first obtaining permission, and that she would be in breach of her contract if she joined the rival show.’
This led to a legal battle between the two. The company has since re-instated the presenter and issued the following statement:
The South African Broadcasting Corporation (SABC) operates in a highly competitive media environment and the consistency in management and retention of its On-Air talent is a key imperative to its business.
“In order for us to compete effectively, I have instructed management to ensure consistent application of the SABC’s directive regarding On-Air talent working for direct competitors.” said Mr. Hlaudi Motsoeneng, SABC Chief Operations Officer (COO).
To this end and with due regard to the circumstances relating to the termination of Ms. Pearl Thusi’s contract with the SABC, the corporation resolved to reinstate Ms. Thusi’s services as an On-Air Personality. In this particular instance the directive was not applied consistently and appropriate action will be considered.
Ms. Pearl Thusi indicated that she is delighted to be back at the SABC and stated “I am happy to be back at the SABC, an organization that has provided me with a great foundation to allow me to progress within the industry”.
The SABC’s COO, Mr. Hlaudi Motsoeneng concluded that “As a public service broadcaster, the SABC remains committed to the fair treatment of all its On-Air talent”.
