The ANC has ordered Communications Minister Faith Muthambi to sort out the mess at the SABC before the broadcaster implodes. Those close to the ANC plan said the party is concerned at a staff revolt and how this might influence coverage of the local government elections in August.It is not clear what the ANC wants and whether it still backs the embattled SABC chief operating officer Hlaudi Motsoeneng.Acting SABC CEO Jimi Matthews shocked the public on Monday when he suddenly resigned his post, citing a "corrosive atmosphere" at the broadcaster. The resignation followed the suspension of senior staff members who questioned Motsoeneng's decision to censor news coverage.Muthambi steered clear of the problems facing the SABC yesterday and lashed out at Matthews instead.The minister said the "timing of his resignation is suspect".But, she said, she had confidence in the board to calm the situation. "A stable and functional SABC is in the interest of all of us. We believe that normality will prevail," said Muthambi.A senior news producer at Auckland Park said whatever plan the ANC and the minister had must be about "editorial integrity and independence"."We will not accept anything less than transparency and independence. The government cannot paper over this matter and hope all is well. Things are not well. We can take only that much and nothing further," the staffer, who asked to remain anonymous, said.Others took to social media to express solidarity with suspended staff members, stating that they would fight to regain control of their independence. The SABC moved swiftly to replace Matthews yesterday, appointing James Aguma, the SABC group's chief financial officer, to the post in an acting capacity.SABC board members threw their weight behind Motsoeneng, saying under his leadership the institution was financially sound and that there was no crisis.SABC board chairman Mbulaheni Maguvhe praised Motsoeneng for the turnaround at the organisation. Motsoeneng told the media yesterday that there was no crisis at the SABC and that his "door is open to anyone" who sought clarity. He slated those who accuse him of dictatorship and repeated there was no crisis."When one or two persons cough, it does not mean all of us have flu. People at the SABC are very excited. There is no revolt within the organisation," Motsoeneng said...