'Everywhere I go‚ people support Hlaudi' - SABC's Motsoeneng

'Everywhere I go‚ people support Hlaudi' - SABC's Motsoeneng

Tmg Digital | 2016-09-27 15:35:11.0

Hlaudi Motsoeneng. File Photo.
Image by: FREDDY MAVUNDA, Business Day

An unapologetic Hlaudi Motsoeneng says he is a much-loved champion of transformation and will reapply for the job of chief operations officer of the state broadcaster when it is advertised‚ despite the scandal about him lying to get the job in the first place.

This comes after SABC CEO James Aguma told a news conference that he remains an employee of the South African Broadcasting Corporation and will be going back to position of GE corporate affairs. And when the job of chief operating officer is advertised‚ he can apply‚ SABC board chair Professor Mbulaheni Maguvhe said as he publicly endorsed Motsoeneng.

Motsoeneng's position as COO was found to be invalid after the Supreme Court of Appeal recently dismissed his application for leave to appeal a High Court in Cape Town ruling‚ which set aside his permanent appointment.

• Hlaudi Motsoeneng stays at SABC, can apply for his old position 

Motsoeneng began acting as COO in 2011 and Communications Minister Faith Muthambi confirmed his permanent appointment in 2014‚ despite adverse findings by the Public Protector‚ including that he misrepresented his qualifications and awarded staff and himself irregular salary increases.

On Tuesday‚ Motsoeneng said no matter where he is‚ he will continue to "make miracles".

He said his critics were malicious and misled the public. "The public is not stupid. They know what is happening

"In South Africa I have more majority than those who are making noise... Everywhere I go people support Hlaudi, worse  in the rural areas because you know I'm a rural boy."

He said it was 'a given' that he would apply for the COO job at the SABC when it is advertised. Until then‚ he intended to ensure his current job in corporate affairs at the SABC was "interesting".