Journalists show united front at SABC protest

MOTORISTS driving past the SABC office in Sea Point hooted in support for around 100 picketing journalists shouting "Hlaudi must go!"

Dressed mostly in black, they held up boards stating "Not in our name", a comment on recent editorial developments at the public broadcaster.

Joining them was SABC journalist Lukhanyo Calata, who spoke out against his employer earlier in the week.

He said on Friday that he felt it was crucial that he attend the peaceful protest and show his support. His son sat on his shoulders.

While SABC COO Hlaudi Motsoaneng earlier assured staff at the broadcaster were happy, Calata said there was much discontent.

He said he had, on many occasions, challenged editorial decisions put to him.

"If we don't show one aspect of a protest, then we won't show one aspect of another story," he said.

"It starts off small and escalates into something so much bigger than what we ever could imagine."

Some journalists stood with black tape crossed over their mouths.

Among those braving the icy weather were editors Adriaan Basson (News24), Gasant Abarder (Cape Argus) and Andrew Trench (Times Media).

Meanwhile in Auckland Park, Johannesburg at the SABC Head offices, journalist also protest. 

Both protests are trending all over twitter with people using the hashtag #BlackFriday