SABC explains why Afrikaans television news bulletin was not broadcast over the weekend

JOHANNESBURG - The SABC has explained why the Afrikaans television news bulletin over the weekend was not broadcast, saying this was due to a scheduling error.

The bulletins did not air in their regular time slot on SABC 2 on Saturday and Sunday.

The public broadcaster subsequently received backlash from viewers and some political parties over the issue.

It says consequence management processes are currently underway to address the internal oversight.

Spokesperson Mmoni Ngubane said, "We want to assure the public and our stakeholders that there is no plan or decision to discontinue or deprioritise Afrikaans news. The Afrikaans television news bulletin continues to air as scheduled from Monday to Friday, and the weekend bulletin will also continue in its regular time slot going forward."

Ngubane says Afrikaans remains an important part of their public broadcasting mandate, just as all South African languages are.

"We acknowledge the deep concern this weekend's error has caused, particularly within Afrikaans-speaking communities. We extend our sincere and heartfelt apology to the South African public, and especially to those who felt aggrieved by this disruption."