By: Poelano Malema
Today is an emotional day at the SABC as the national broadcaster bids farewell to more than 600 of its employees.
The SABC announced on Tuesday that it has concluded its Section 189 process and will transition into the new fit-for-purpose structure from April 1.
“Subsequent to the conclusion of the resourcing of the new structure, the total number of employees who will leave the organisation at the end of March 2021 is 621,” SABC said on its website.
READ: SABC retrenches 621 staff members
A video showing veteran news anchor, Desiree Chauke, getting emotional while reading the news was shared on Twitter.
The presenter was reading a bulletin about the SABC retrenchments when her voice started cracking and she couldn’t hold back her tears.
“I apologise. I’m not able to finish that. Can I ask our producers to take a break,” said Chauke.
Watch the emotional video below.
#SABCRetrenchments.
This is painful and many South Africans are going through this not only Sabc. pic.twitter.com/jO9DBitD4X— Lebogang ® (@lebogang_mzansi) March 31, 2021
#SABCRetrenchments has been trending on Twitter since Wednesday morning.
Many people, including Bonang Matheba, have spoken about how sad the retrenchments are.
“The SABC played such a huge role in my career, it’s so painful to witness all this! My thoughts go out to all the staff & families impacted by the #SABCRetrenchments,” wrote Bonang.
…the SABC played such a huge role in my career, it’s so painful to witness all this! My thoughts go out to all the staff & families impacted by the #SABCRetrenchments…?❤?
— Bonang Matheba ? (@bonang_m) March 31, 2021
See more reactions below.
It’s a sad reality that hardworking people suffer today because of years of poor decisions & corruption at the top. People who brought the SABC back to glory after those managers left the building with fat payouts, are jobless because of them. Hayi… life ? #SABCRetrenchments
— Shahan Ramkissoon (@ShahanR) March 31, 2021
What would’ve been my last day of maternity leave marks the last day of my journalism career. I had more highs than lows. I loved my job, told horrific & stories that changed people’s lives, met really wonderful people who supported me. Ngiyabonga kakhulu ??#SABCRetrenchments
— Thabile Stella Mbhele ?? (@ThabileStella) March 31, 2021
If you’re still employed, count yourself blessed??
Just imagine 621 people losing jobs during these hard times?.
You should be grateful#SABCRetrenchments pic.twitter.com/xMMoOU1yr7— Ntokozo Masuku (@visse_ss) March 31, 2021



