SABC saddened by tragic death of former board member Hope Zinde

The SABC has on Sunday expressed their 'shock and sadness' at the passing of former board member Hope Zinde.

The public broadcaster issued a statement which expressed their condolences. Zinde started her career at the SABC in 1991 as a journalist . She later went on to become a writer and producer for current affairs programmes and ultimately became an SABC board member until her removal.

Zinde's body was found at her home at an estate in Pecanwood near Hartebeespoort in North West on Saturday.

Reports state that her son  is being questioned by police in connection with her death.

Here is the SABC statement in full:

The South African Broadcasting Corporation (SABC) has learnt with sadness and shock about the tragic passing of former SABC Board member Ms Hope Zinde.

A stellar journalist, Ms Zinde began her career at the SABC in 1991. Over the years she grew through the ranks, holding positions such as writer and producer for current affairs programmes. In 2000, Ms Zinde became an anchor and executive producer at SABC Africa. During her time at SABC Africa, she anchored the news and current affairs programme ‘Perspective’ and co-anchored ‘180 Degrees’ a news slot within SABC Africa.

Ms Zinde then left the organization and later re-joined the SABC family as a board member when she was appointed in September 2013.

SABC Board Chairperson, Professor Prof Mbulaheni Maguvhe stated “Ms Zinde as a Journalist worked tirelessly in the broadcasting arena in both television and radio. Her experience and knowledge over the years, eventually led her to being part of the SABC Board. She served the board to the best of her ability during her tenure and the South African public has lost a giant in the field of journalism and broadcasting”.

The SABC Board, Management and staff sends its deepest condolences to the family and friends of Ms Zinde during this difficult time and our prayers are with them.