She is one of the country's top news anchors. But after allegedly failing to pitch for duty, the SABC bosses have had to let go of bubbly isiZulu newsreader Sakhiwo Sokhela.

GOING MIA

The SABC showed her the door last week following an incident where she allegedly failed to report for duty and did not inform her superiors on time. An insider at the SABC revealed that this is not the first time the incident occurred. "We are all human beings, and we have issues, but with television, you need to inform people on time, especially live television. Either they get a stand-in, replacement, or make a plan, you can't just show up.' The informant says, "Sakhiwo had a serious crisis, and that is understandable but going MIA is not good.'

NOT TAKING IT WELL

SABC management is said to have later learned that she did not see her schedule. "She claimed not to have seen the schedule, which everyone receives the same way at the same time. Maybe she missed it - but she could have asked,' the colleague revealed. Sakhiwo did not respond to queries regarding the matter. A close friend and colleague said she has not been okay since the incident happened. "She does not know what to say or do, she's not okay. Especially for such a thing to happen during the holiday season, meaning all her plans have been cancelled , and she needs to find work. She has gone home to KZN to cool off even now.' Mmoni Seapelo, the SABC spokesperson said she needs to communicate with all parties involved and management before giving any comment. "It's the holidays, who will pick up their phones regarding the matter,' the colleague concluded.