That MacG episode not on our platforms — MultiChoice

MultiChoice says though it is committed to upholding broadcasting standards, the recent controversial Podcast and Chill with MacG episode by MacGyver “MacG” Mukwevho did not air on its platforms.

This comes after Moja Love (DStv channel 157) criticised podcaster MacG for his offensive remarks about media personality Minnie Dlamini on his show.

MacG's remarks sparked social media outrage, with users calling for the podcast to be cancelled.

MultiChoice spokesperson Suzaan Keyter said Moja Love was a third-party channel which had its own head of editorial, but was held to the same standards. The company said all content aired on its platforms undergoes internal review processes.

“All MultiChoice-owned or commissioned content that is scheduled to broadcast on our platforms, and all content that has aired, undergo[es] an internal review process. This is done to ensure clearance by our editorial standards, as well as compliance with the regulations set forth by the Independent Communications Authority of South Africa and the Broadcasting Complaints Commission of South Africa. The episode in question has not been aired on our platforms,” MultiChoice said in a statement.

However, communications and digital technologies minister Solly Malatsi, said the broadcasting company should take some responsibility. “It is completely unacceptable what MacG said regarding Minnie Dlamini and to have podcasters who have sizeable audiences [doing this] is completely unacceptable.

“MultiChoice also has a responsibility to ensure that those associated with its brand... uphold the values of free media, the values of respect to people's individual rights and dignity. Freedom of speech should not be used to harm other people's rights. That’s what we are guarding against,” said Malatsi.

He said the white paper on audio and audiovisual media services is being discussed and will be out soon for public opinion.

“Part of the plans that the department has, particularly through the white paper... is looking at mechanisms of oversight for digital content and what is also known as OTTs — over-the-top services,” said Malatsi.

“The plan is to ensure that every medium of media conducts itself in a manner that is not harmful to the dignity of its audiences, does not spread misinformation and disinformation and that there should be a standard code of conduct,” he said.

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