Hon Deputy Speaker, the ANC supports the nomination of the names presented to this House today in terms of complying with section 13(4)(a)(b)(c) and (d) of the Broadcasting Act. The above-mentioned names of candidates, whom we are recommending to this House today for appointment by the President, when viewed collectively, are persons who are suited to serve on the board by virtue of their qualifications, expertise and experience in broadcasting policy and technology; broadcasting regulations; media law; business practice and finance; marketing; journalism; entertainment; education; and social and labour issues. They are persons who are committed to fairness, freedom of expression, the right of the public to be informed and openness and accountability on the part of those holding public office. They represent a broad cross-section of the population of the Republic and are persons who are committed to the objects and principles as enunciated in the charter of the corporation.
Therefore, it is clear from the above that, in terms of the skills diversity needed from board members, the committee had a clear mandate to ensure that the above-mentioned criteria were met to the letter, and all political parties were in agreement to comply with the Broadcasting Act. I am surprised as to what they are saying today. I am confident that the nominated candidates cover all the skills and requisites that are spelt out in the Act. Unless the opposing parties identify a particular skills gap, the nominated candidates complement one another and will diversify the board, as mandated. [Interjections.]
Like all other political parties, the ANC has the right to have internal processes that enable it to take consensual decisions based on the party position. In fact, on numerous occasions, the opposition parties requested to consult with party caucuses for the sake of clarity. I do not see why the ANC cannot be afforded the same privilege. Thank you. [Applause.]