Tbo Touch sheds light on why he resigned from Metro FM

Metro FM host Tbo Touch has opened up about his return to Metro FM.

In 2016, the media personality handed in his resignation, saying his exit was a matter of “principle” after 11 years with the broadcaster.

In a recent interview on 947's breakfast show, Tbo Touch said he left the station amicably. 

“There was never any bad blood between myself and the station. It was just a misunderstanding at the time. You don't cut the umbilical cord if you understand the value of life. Our network is in the relationships we keep with people.

“The sad reality about talented people is we always threaten that where they are is the best thing that could happen in their life. So a month later I bought a C605, and took the family to Barcelona. I felt like I was going to be the first one to show people there's life after what people seem to fence as your dream. My dream is to not be locked to a specific location or address.”

In March, speculation about his return circulated on social media. Sunday World reported the SABC was ready to cough up R480,000 per month to bring him back to the station, but the broadcaster denied this.

“The public broadcaster rejects this deliberate misinformation as it is misleading and factually incorrect. The SABC’s GCEO does not get involved in line-up negotiations as that is the job of programme managers and business managers. In addition, the SABC does not pay car allowances and other fringe benefits to freelancers.

“The SABC’s radio stations are guided by executive committee approved standardised freelance rates which would not see anyone earning even half the amount quoted in the newspaper. Independent contractors do not get involved in soliciting sales and sponsorship as the SABC does not have a commission scheme that covers individuals outside sales staff.”

His return was confirmed with the announcement of the new radio line-up. The station said they were happy to have him back.

“The station is pleased to announce the new afternoon drive show, The Touchdown with Tbo Touch, which will be presented by Thabo ‘Tbo Touch’ Molefe who is back and better than ever. The show will broadcast weekdays from 3pm to 6pm. Experienced sports presenter Morena Mothupi will join the team to do the sports. This new show promises to be high energy, fast paced and engaging.”