SA regulator blocks TV porn channels
South Africa’s communications regulator, ICASA, has refused the right for satellite TV network TopTV to broadcast pornographic channels.
The Independent Communications Authority of South Africa (ICASA) did not provide reasons for the decision not to allow the channels Private Spice, Playboy Europe and Adult XXX.
Despite pornographic materials including videos and magazines being legal, regulators have blocked the bid for sexually explicit channels on cable TV networks.
READ MORE FROM THE WDM CONTENT NETWORK:
Africa's biggest brands: MTN's recipe for success
The most prestigious cards on the planet
iOS vs Android vs BlackBerry OS
Read the latest edition of African Business Review here
"We advise that the Council of the Authority...decided, after careful consideration, to refuse On Digital Media (Pty) Ltd's application for the authorisation of (the proposed) video channels," ICASA reportedly stated in a letter.
On Digital Media owns TopTV, which said it did not wish to comment until knowing ICASA’s reasons behind the decision.
It is not the first time sexually explicit channels have been met with a backlash, as broadcaster DSTV had to cancel its adult-owned channel application after disapproval from government officials and outrage in the South African public.
