by Thinus Ferreira
MultiChoice is looking into allegations following complaints that commissioning editors at the Randburg-based pay-TV operator are allegedly doling out preferential treatment to friends and blocking other production companies from getting work as they commission shows and sign contracts for series on M-Net channels and then resign to then share in the lucrative contract-income spoils.
The Real Housewives of Johannesburg (RHOJ), produced by the now-defunct RHOSA Productions owned by Sonia Mbele, Pebbles Gqunta and Rebone Sesing, is allegedly one of these shows.
At least one upset producer has complained to MultiChoice about the way in which commissioning editors are allegedly cashing in by first commissioning shows with the production banners of their friends, and then leave to join in the payouts.
Reports surfaced that although the latest season of the Real Housewives of Johannesburg went out to tender for production companies to pitch, the show was already signed and in production with a specific production company already.
Nomsa Philiso, director of local entertainment channels at M-Net, says in a statement that "MultiChoice takes allegations of impropriety in our commissioning very serious".
"We are aware of the allegations that have been made and we looking into these allegations. We remain committed to ensuring that our processes are free of impropriety."
Sonia Mbele through her lawyer Modise Sefume of Giyose Sefume Attorneys in a statement said that "Save to note that another company was awarded the tender while our client is in pitching process, our client has no comment".
