SANEF mourns the passing of veteran journalist William “Paddy” Harper
28 January 2025
The South African National Editors’ Forum (Sanef) is deeply saddened by the passing of the esteemed journalist William “Paddy” Harper. Harper died peacefully at home on Saturday, surrounded by his loved ones, at the age of 58.
A veteran of South African journalism, Paddy was celebrated for his fearless reporting, sharp wit, and unwavering commitment to truth. Throughout his illustrious career, he worked with several leading media houses, including at the Independent Media group, City Press, The Times, Sunday Times, and most recently, the Mail & Guardian, where he served as Political Editor.
Mondli Makhanya, City Press editor and one of Harper’s former colleagues described him as “one of the finest among us,” adding that Paddy’s unique writing style combined wit and a sense of mischief without diminishing the seriousness of the subject matter.
“Paddy was undoubtedly one of the silkiest writers of our generation. Whether reporting on tragedies that have scarred his province or analysing political conferences, he transported readers to the scene with vivid imagery and sharp clarity,” Makhanya said. “He understood South African politics, particularly KwaZulu-Natal, better than most. Paddy was also a “blerry” hilarious raconteur and an entertaining drinking partner, with unmatched knowledge of Durban’s bar and shebeen scene.”
Sthembiso Msomi, former Sunday Times editor, reflected on Harper’s role as a pioneer in the New African newspaper, part of the courageous alternative press that stood against apartheid in the 1980s.
“Paddy was a legend to aspiring journalists like me,” Msomi shared. “His fearless reporting on political violence in Richmond, the debates in the KwaZulu-Natal legislature, and infighting within the provincial government showed his courage to tell the truth, no matter whom it offended. His professionalism and independence earned him respect across the political spectrum.”
Msomi added that Harper’s insight and dedication were evident even years later when they worked together at the Sunday Times. “Beyond his exceptional journalism, Paddy’s down-to-earth approach and Ubuntu will be sorely missed.”
Luke Feltham, Mail & Guardian Editor-in-Chief described Paddy as an incredible human being and fierce friend to all at the Mail & Guardian.
“For so long he was our newsroom’s conscience – an adored mentor that ensured our journalism remained uncompromising. He was a storyteller, loyal to the truth and never influenced by fear or agenda. His irreproachable ethics earned him respect from readers, colleagues, and the political world he reported on. It is rare that someone whose words are so influential, at times potent, is so universally revered,” he said.
He said the tributes that have flooded the M&G reflected how loved he was. Everyone has a “Paddy story” more often than not a wild exploit that invariably ends in a couple of cold ones at the bar. “He was a great journalist because he lived a great life. We will miss him dearly.”
Kumi Naidoo, former director of Greenpeace, highlighted Harper’s lasting impact on South African media. “Paddy’s fearless reporting and commitment to justice have left an indelible mark. His passion for truth inspired many, and his legacy will continue to resonate through the stories he shared. Our thoughts are with his family and friends during this difficult time.”
Mahlatse Mahlase, former SANEF chairperson and Eye Witness News editor, described Harper’s death as a significant loss to South African democracy. “Paddy was a formidable journalist, wielding his pen with purpose and wit. He carried an invaluable wealth of institutional memory, and his contributions to our media landscape will not be forgotten.”
Melanie-Ann Feris described his death as a sad day for journalism. “I had the privilege of working with Paddy many years ago at the City Press. I was in awe of him and learned so much from him. He was not only a gifted journalist but also a great human being – a true gentleman, a kind soul, and someone with a wonderful sense of humour.”
Ron Derby, former editor-in-chief of the Mail & Guardian, wrote: “There are three special things about Paddy Harper, the old war horse of a political journalist that I had the highest honour of working with during my three years at the Mail & Guardian. First, he had Irish roots, second, he was an Arsenal fan. And like ‘Liam Brady,’ the third aspect of Paddy that I loved was that he wrote with a flair that most of us who had shared a newsroom with him could only ever dream of.”
He said it was a privilege reading him or listening to him opine about the state of the country’s politics and in the main – KwaZulu Natal’s history since the 1980s. Paddy knew the land of a thousand hills with its many tales of hope, beauty and political subterfuge better than most especially the world of the late Mangosuthu Buthelezi and the IFP. He was amongst the last of a dying breed of romantic journalists who understood and cherished their craft of storytelling with a wit and charm that could not be matched. Derby said he would be missed, and his old fraternity is all the poorer for it.
Paddy Harper’s legacy as a journalist, colleague, and friend will endure in the hearts of those he touched and the stories he told. Sanef extends heartfelt condolences to his family, friends, and colleagues as we honour the life and legacy of one of South Africa’s finest journalists.
Note to Editors:
The South African National Editors’ Forum (Sanef) is a non-profit organisation whose members are editors, senior journalists, and journalism trainers from all areas of South African media. We are committed to championing South Africa’s hard-won freedom of expression and promoting quality, ethics, and diversity in the South African media. We promote excellence in journalism by fighting for media freedom, writing policy submissions, research, and education and training programmes. SANEF is not a union.
For more information, please contact:
Nwabisa Makunga – Chairperson (082) 555-1972
Tshamano Makhadi – Deputy Chairperson (082) 223-0621
Dr. Glenda Daniels – Secretary-General (083) 229-9708
Sbu Ngalwa – Treasurer General (073) 404-1415
Makhudu Sefara – Media Freedom Chair (079) 177-2134
Katy Katopodis – SANEF Wellness and Safety Chair (082) 805-7022
Judy Sandison – SANEF KZN Convenor (082) 571-3334
Rochelle De Kock – SANEF Eastern Cape Convenor (072) 969-8028
Sisanda Nkoala – SANEF Western Cape Convenor (073)138-5564
Reggy Moalusi – SANEF Executive Director (071) 682-3695
Twitter: @SAEditorsForum
Email: [email protected]
Website: www.sanef.org.za
