JOHANNESBURG – The show, hosted by radio and television journalist Siki Mgabadeli, was first aired on e.tv in 2009 presented by Dan Moyane. In November 2013, it returned to eNCA (DStv 403). Four seasons later, the show is still breaking new ground in South African journalism by holding leaders to account and giving a voice to ordinary residents and communities.

Nothing is off limits: from Health to Education, Land Reform to Racism and more. For ten weeks the show grapples with the most controversial issues and tries to find solutions. From movers and shakers to the masses, everyone is given a chance to air their views.

Patrick Conroy, Group Head of News said, “As we head into 20 years of democracy we feel it is critical to debate the issues facing our country. How can that be a bad thing? It is just a contestation of ideas – that’s what freedom is all about.”

Monde Twala, Group Head for e.tv elaborated that: “We agreed to broadcast the show too because we feel it is in the public interest to do so. Debate cannot only take place on Pay-TV platforms it must be widely accessible to the majority of South Africans.”

Ben Cashdan, Executive Producer of the show added: “This is the fifth series of The Big Debate. I think right now South Africa needs more than ever a space in which marginalised voices can be heard. Hopefully someone is listening.”

The show will run for ten weeks, at 48 minutes per episode on high definition. Please note that on Sunday, 16 February 2014, we will not have Big Debate and the episode will be shifted to the following week.