Emalahleni FM station manager maps out plan to navigate challenges
EMALAHLENI – Continuous internal disputes are rocking the Emalahleni community radio, Emalahleni FM, leaving listeners on sixes and sevens as presenters frequently down tools.
“We are confused; one morning, the radio is on, the next morning, it’s off air,” said Emily Skosana, a listener. “As listeners, we feel this is a disservice that we don’t deserve. Whatever is happening there must just stop.”
The embattled community radio has been on and off air since 19 March, following unresolved disputes between the board of directors, management, and employees over unpaid salaries and services.
“We do not have faith in the current board of directors, who are in cahoots with management to drive the station, which belongs to the community, down the drain,” said a presenter who chose to remain anonymous. “They lack transparency and run the station like a family business, intimidating staff.”
On April 4, board members met with staff and management, releasing a statement afterward, claiming to have resolved the stand-off. However, the turmoil quickly resurfaced, resulting in further uncertainty at the station. This time, the board of directors decided to lock the station’s doors and retain the key after firing a technical manager.
The Emalahleni municipality also weighed in, stating the need for intervention to find a workable solution to the leadership crisis engulfing the radio. “The station’s license belongs to the Ministry of Communications; hence, we need to intervene. When we inform the minister we must be in a better position to understand as to what is happening at the radio station,” said Mayor Leah Mabuza. “The people of Emalahleni need this community radio, and despite internal squabbles, we will provide mentorship and support to address the challenges they are facing.”
Responding to questions from the paper, station manager Isaac Mampane forwarded a joint statement from the board, management, staff, and various stakeholders after a meeting held on May 01,2024.
The statement, among other points, reads: “It has been established that there are various challenges facing the radio station that require the attention of the board, management, and staff. There is a complaint lodged with ICASA regarding the operation of the station, including governance matters such as too much interference by the board in station operations and allegations of disruption of disciplinary processes. There are also concerns about the discontinuation of station operations and attempts to change its name without proper consultation,” said the statement.
“Employees should return to work to ensure that the station operates in accordance with legal requirements.”
Furthermore, the statement indicated that management will meet on Monday, May 6, 2024, to review unfair dismissals of employees and ensure that workers are paid their salaries within a reasonable period, subject to fund availability.
“The board meeting is scheduled to take place on the 14th of May 2024 to receive reports from management, including the financial report of the station, and to ensure that audited financial statements are presented before the board in accordance with the laws and regulations governing radio stations,” the statement concluded.
