MZANSI stars and performers are still fighting for their rights.
The South African Guild of Actors (Saga) is asking everyone to help them stop the exploitation of actors in Mzansi.
On Wednesday, 27 September, actors issued a petition pleading with South Africans to help them fight the new clauses in the entertainment industry that are harmful to their livelihoods.
They believe if they get the help of South Africans, their voices will be heard, and careers will be saved.
Hungani Ndlovu, media and communications liaison at Saga, told Daily Sun that they decided to start a petition to rally support from their fellow citizens to stop the exploitation of actors in Mzansi.
He said they realised that many artists would die with nothing to point out.
The 29-year-old Joburg-based actor said they want to fight for the rights of actors.
"Our counterparts in the US SAG AFTRA are on strike as well, fighting a crucial battle with streaming platforms, broadcasters, and producers. Anyone must sign the petition," he said.
The actor said in some recent actors' contracts, there have been reports of difficult clauses for actors.
ALSO READ: Izangoma in love triangle tale
"Firstly, Exclusive Use of Image, Likeness, and Voice: Producers assert their right to capture and digitise an actor's image, likeness, and voice for exclusive future use across any medium without further compensation.
"Secondly, Denial of Statutory Rights: These contracts aim to prospectively deny actors their statutory moral and economic rights.
"Freedom of Association: Actors are prohibited from joining any organisation, or union, effectively curbing our constitutional right to freedom of association. And lastly, Force Majeure Clauses: Producers reserve the right to declare force majeure if production fails to secure grant payments from the Department of Trade, Industry and Competition (DTIC), thereby withholding performance fees due to the actor," he said.
Hungani said the new clauses put actors in an even more terrible position.
"You can’t negotiate contract terms. If you don’t sign the deal, you starve. If you sign, you commit career suicide.
"As Saga, we want to report this to parliament and need everyone’s help. Help us by signing the petition on www.change.org/ProtectArtistRights because there's strength in numbers," he said.
The performer said it’s time for change.
He currently plays the role of Tbose on SABC1's Skeem Saam.
