Together with patience and tolerance, acknowledgement of other perspectives and reconciliatory discussions are key to resolving conflicts and disputes in society,” says Algoa FM managing director, Alfie Jay.
He was commenting after a live discussion on Monday, June 19 on the Algoa FM Breakfast show between presenter team co-host Lee Duru and an aggrieved listener.
This follows a comment made by Duru on Thursday, June 15, about cyclists while discussing early morning traffic.
It sparked the ire of professional tri-athlete, Natia Gous, who took to social media to address Duru’s comments.
“For me, the highlight of this morning’s conversation demonstrated the value of face-to-face engagement and talking things through in person,” says Jay.
“On her own initiative, Duru reached out to Gous and invited her into studio to discuss the plight of cyclists for the benefit of all listeners, including non-cycling motorists.”
During the morning conversation on June 19, Gous stressed the need for motorists to be more aware of cyclists, and to ensure that they pass at least one metre away from them.
Duru conceded “I totally acknowledge the perception, the interpretation and the impact of my words on those who were offended, especially after realising the gravity of some of the challenges faced by cyclists.”
After the comment was made on Thursday, Gous had made her feelings known online before Duru was afforded the opportunity to personally make contact.
“This morning’s discussion gave both parties the opportunity to provide context publicly, without casting any aspersions, and with a view to reconciling perspectives by educating listeners at large, about the challenges cyclists faced.
“The rapid growth of social media has encouraged a change in behaviour to rush to social media far too quickly when people feel aggrieved.
“This leads to all sorts of unwanted attention including and not limited to slanderous accusations and being sued for defamation of character.
“Algoa FM will not respond to complaints in social media – but will take action when fair opportunity for a right-to-reply is provided on the back of a formal complaint,“ said Jay.
“As a member of the Broadcasting Complaints Commission of South Africa, we continually strive to honour the code of conduct prescribed.
“While remarks made by our presenters on air do not necessarily reflect the views of Algoa FM, we appreciate that they are human and admittedly, don’t always get it right for everyone listening. “When we err, we must take responsibility for our actions – something Lee Duru chose to do on her own accord with support from management.”
“As a trusted media brand, integrity lives at the forefront of our values.
“Our aim is to always add value which is why we are passionate about people, the environment, and the events in which we are invested,” he said.
