The South African Broadcasting Corporation (SABC) has applied for permission to broadcast the upcoming appeal of Durban businessman Schabir Shaik live on television.
According to papers filed at the Supreme Court of Appeal on Tuesday, the public broadcaster wants to broadcast both television footage and live radio.
SABC chief legal adviser Masika Sihlali said in an affidavit that, as a possible alternative, the broadcaster wanted permission to be present and record the appeal proceedings for the purposes of a delayed broadcast.
Sihlali said the SABC only wanted to broadcast argument by legal counsel and not oral evidence that may be led.
The SABC submitted that their wish to record and broadcast the appeal hearing was pursuant to ”intense public interest and demands” by the television viewing and radio listening public.
A court official said the application will be heard on Monday August 14 by five appeal judges.
Earlier this month television news groups received the go-ahead from the Supreme Court of Appeal to take court footage only.
No sound recordings or additional lighting would, however, be allowed.
The court has scheduled five days during its third term, which starts on August 15, to hear the Shaik matter.
It will take place during the second week, August 21 to 25. — Sapa