SABC Initiates Inquiry into Mamontha Motaung’s behaviour at Lesedi FM

National News/ 29 September 2023, 06:22am / Mandla Nkosi

Thuso Motaung and Mamontha Motaung: image supplied

By Mandla Nkosi: The South African Broadcasting Corporation (SABC) has launched an official investigation into the conduct of Mamontha Motaung, Head of Business for Lesedi FM and Motsweding FM, following rising allegations of unprofessional behavior and misuse of authority. This move comes in response to escalating public and internal backlash against the station’s management.

A leaked recording of the presenter of Makgulong A Matala and Jwale Ke Nako, in which he accuses award-winning sportscaster Thabo Kofa of conspiring to harm him and his family, ignited a public relations disaster for Lesedi FM and its leadership.

Thousands of irate listeners have since voiced their objections, protesting the perceived monopolization of the station by the Motaungs, and demanding that the SABC take disciplinary action against those responsible for tarnishing the station’s reputation.

In the contentious recording, Mannini Nyokong, the Sesotho broadcasting programmes manager, can be heard berating both senior and junior station staff, accusing them of unprofessional behaviour and threatening punitive measures for noncompliance with her directives.

The severity of the situation is further highlighted by the listeners’ public condemnation of Thuso Motaung on the station’s social media platforms, along with other social media groups in South Africa and Lesotho. They accuse him of using the radio station to unfairly attack those who disagree with him.

The listeners’ comments reflect a deep-seated dissatisfaction with the station’s management. Listener Sefako Ramohaule remarked, “I am still listening to that recording of Lesedi FM where Thuso Motaung and the station bosses are just blackmailing Thabo Kofa.”

Lefa Mofokeng added, “Thabo Kofa is not the one who wrote that on social media…They’re afraid that the person is going to expose them for their bad behaviour.”

The investigation by the SABC into these serious allegations is expected to bring clarity and possibly reform to Lesedi FM. The public and staff of the station now await the outcomes with bated breath, hoping that the probe will lead to improved management and a more respectful working environment.