SANEF Statement on Death of Journalist Suna Venter

The South African National Editors’ Forum (SANEF) is deeply shocked and saddened at the untimely death of Suna Venter, a senior SABC journalist. Venter was found dead in her Fairland’s home earlier this morning.

Together with another 7 journalists, Venter formed part of a group that came to be known as the SABC 8 after they were suspended from the public broadcaster when they voiced their concerns about editorial interference in the newsrooms. They were summarily dismissed, but later reinstated.

SANEF also expressed its shock recently when it emerged that Venter had been victimized and intimidated and had received death threats as a result of her battles with the SABC. She also had to undergo surgery to remove metal pellets after she was shot in the face with an unknown weapon.
While her family has described her sudden death as the result of a heart condition, they say the events of the past year exacerbated and possible even caused the condition.

Venter, together with her SABC 8 colleagues were the recipients of the Nat Nakasa Award in 2016 for their bravery and courage. Venter will always be remembered for never giving up even when she faced threats and intimidation. She believed in the role of the public broadcaster as enshrined in our constitution to play a central role in strengthening our democracy.

SANEF extends its deepest condolences to her parents and siblings, as well as all her colleagues and those who knew her.

For Inquiries:

SANEF Chairperson: Mahlatse Gallens 083 399 2852
SANEF Deputy Chairperson – Katy Katopodis, 082 805 7022

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Twitter: @SAEditorsForum

Email: [email protected]

Website: SANEF