SABC News has removed anchor Juliet Newell from its broadcast schedule after strong criticism over her handling of an interview with veteran activist Dr Mamphela Ramphele.
The decision followed public outrage after Newell questioned Ramphele’s comparison of starving Palestinians to the Holocaust.
According to the South African Broadcasting Corporation (SABC), the action was taken in line with internal editorial processes.
In a statement, the broadcaster said the anchor was “currently not scheduled,” while making it clear its duty to provide credible and balanced coverage.
The Dr Ramphele interview that sparked backlash
The controversy stems from a segment in which Ramphele described the humanitarian crisis in Gaza. When she likened the suffering of Palestinians to the Holocaust, Newell asked:
“Do you not see this as provocative?”
Ramphele responded firmly:
“The Holocaust happened, and it will continue to happen in different forms… Do we have to wait for millions to die to call this what it is? If we wait for six million to die, then humanity has no right to call itself human.”
Her words struck a chord with viewers but also triggered accusations that Newell’s questioning downplayed atrocities in Gaza.
Criticism from Palestine Solidarity Groups
The Palestine Solidarity Campaign (PSC) and media activists condemned the broadcaster’s approach.
The PSC accused the SABC of adopting “language that mirrors Israeli talking points,” citing phrases such as “allegations of genocide” or “according to Gaza health ministry.”
In a statement, the PSC insisted:
“This is not a ‘war’, it is a genocide, marked by forced displacement of civilians, indiscriminate bombing of homes, journalists, and medical staff, and the intentional starvation and blockade of aid.”
Activist Hassen Lorgat echoed this view, saying:
“This approach sanitises mass atrocities, misleads South Africans, and minimises crimes committed against Palestinians.”
SABC defends its policies
The SABC stressed that its editorial rules are meant to maintain public trust.
“The SABC’s Editorial Policies are aimed at building trust with the public and ensuring our content resonates with our public mandate,” the broadcaster explained.
But critics argue the institution is failing in that responsibility. The PSC has demanded that the SABC acknowledge genocide in Gaza, cover South Africa’s legal case against Israel at the International Court of Justice, and avoid adopting the framing of foreign governments.
Juliet Newell’s career in broadcasting
Beyond the controversy, Newell is a seasoned broadcaster with more than two decades of television experience.
She began her career on SABC’s educational programme Maths No Problem and later hosted business news on BDTV (Summit TV) and Morning Edition on eTV.
Her career has also included international exposure, presenting African Report on Sky News, as well as lifestyle and design shows on The Home Channel, where she worked for eight years.
Newell eventually returned to hard news, producing economic documentaries for CNBC Africa before rejoining SABC News as a senior anchor on DStv 405.
She is known for her calm interview style, which she combines with persistence in seeking clarity from guests.
As the SABC navigates the storm, Juliet Newell’s future at the broadcaster remains uncertain.
