Cape Times names new editor amid controversy
The Cape Times has confirmed the appointment of Gasant Abarder as its new editor following the controversial sacking of Alide Dasnois, last week.
Abarder is a former editor of the Cape Argus, also an Independent Newspapers group publication.
Mail & Guardian reported that Dasnois was inexplicably removed from her position at the Cape Times by the group’s controlling shareholder, Sekunjalo Consortium.
The Guardian pointed out that Dasnois’ dismissal coincided with the Cape Times having published a front page article on public protector Thuli madonsela’s findingsn which implicated Sekunjalo Consortium in an R800 million tender irregularity with the Department of Agriculture, Forestry, and Fisheries.
Dasnois is believed to have been offered redeployment in another capacity within the company.
The former editor only stated the following: “I am in the process of seeking legal advice.”
SA National Editors’ Forum (Sanef) said that the reasons behind the sudden dismissal of Dasnois must be made clear.
“In the absence of a statement from the Cape Times or Sekunjalo Holdings — the new owner of Independent Newspapers — explaining why Dasnois was suddenly dismissed, Sanef is concerned whether it has any connection with the publication of a story in the newspaper on Friday,” it said in a statement.
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