The South African National Editors’ Forum (Sanef) is deeply saddened by the passing of Daily Sun journalist Tumelo Mofokeng, who passed away on Saturday, 1 March 2025, following a short illness.
According to his family, Mofokeng was admitted to the Sebokeng Hospital in the Vaal on Thursday, 27 February, but died two days later.
Mofokeng, a respected journalist, was a dedicated and passionate storyteller who served his community with integrity. His work extended beyond Daily Sun, having contributed to the Sowetan, ThethaFM, and he also founded his own publication, The Weekly Post.
His passion for reporting and highlighting community issues earned him widespread recognition, including the 2023-2024 Police Excellence Award from SA Police Service’s Sedibeng Cluster head, Major-General Nkhensani Lemba.
Mofokeng loved storytelling through the lens, his untimely passing is a great loss to the journalism fraternity. His contributions to media and his passion for storytelling will not be forgotten. Sanef honours his legacy and commitment to truthful and courageous journalism.
Sanef extends its heartfelt condolences to his widow, Lindela Khumalo, and their two young children, as well as his colleagues, friends, and the broader media community. May his soul rest in peace.
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.
Chris Nissen SAHRC Chairperson: Pic; Malherbe Nienaber/Netwerk24
The South African Human Rights Commission (SAHRC) has called for stronger collaboration between the Commission and the media, emphasising their shared responsibility in protecting the public and monitoring the government.
“We stand together with the media,” Chris Nissen, SAHRC Chairperson, stated at the annual meeting between the SAHRC and the South African National Editors’ Forum (SANEF) on February 24, 2005. “The media plays a critical role in alerting the SAHRC to incidents that fall within our mandate to monitor, investigate, or promote as part of our human rights obligations.”
He highlighted the media’s essential function in disseminating information and knowledge to the public, enabling informed decision-making. He further underscored the Commission’s appreciation for its relationship with the media.
Nissen proposed that engagement between the SAHRC and the media should extend beyond formal meetings to include collaborative activities such as annual lectures, workshops, and seminars.
“We live in a country facing three significant challenges: inequality, poverty, and unemployment. As the Human Rights Commission, our concerns are closely tied to the socio-economic crisis. We urge the media to engage with us as partners while also supporting our broader mission to build a better South Africa. Together, we can uphold human rights and responsibilities.”
He also stressed the importance of maintaining the independence of both institutions while exploring opportunities for cooperation.
“We can collaborate on various programs while respecting each other’s independence. You are independent. We are independent. But we can work together even when our opinions differ,” he said.
During the meeting, SAHRC commissioners shared details about their respective portfolios and the provinces where they are stationed. SANEF, in turn, outlined its 2025 program of action, highlighting plans for voter education training for journalists ahead of the 2026 local government elections. This initiative aims to equip journalists with the knowledge they need to inform the public effectively.
The commissioners expressed their gratitude to the media for its accurate and fair reporting on the Commission’s investigative inquiries in Mpumalanga and the Free State. They also commended the media’s balanced coverage of discussions between the Commission and various government ministers, including those responsible for Water and Sanitation, Cooperative Governance, and engagements with the Parliamentary Portfolio Committee on Water and Sanitation.
The Commission acknowledged that media coverage had significantly enhanced its visibility and reach within communities, ensuring broader awareness of its work.
SANEF used the opportunity to raise concerns about the challenges journalists face, particularly cyberbullying and harassment, with female journalists often being targeted. The organisation also highlighted the intimidation — both direct and indirect — that journalists endure, especially during political campaign seasons.
The SAHRC acknowledged these concerns, noting the increasing use of Strategic Lawsuits Against Public Participation (SLAPPs) to intimidate journalists and suppress legitimate reporting.
“It is troubling that legal mechanisms are being misused to hinder investigative journalism,” Nissen remarked. “Such tactics falsely portray journalism as harassment to silence critical reporting.”
He revealed that the Commission had discussed this issue at its recent Senate meeting and committed to supporting the media fraternity. The SAHRC pledged to issue statements in defense of journalists facing harassment and expressed interest in tackling misinformation and disinformation, another key area of concern for the media.
Additionally, the Commission committed to continuing its visits to newsrooms, fostering open discussions with journalists and editors in their work environments to better understand their challenges and concerns.
The South African National Editors’ Forum (SANEF) participated in a panel discussion before the Parliamentary Portfolio Committee on Communication and Digital Technologies on Wednesday in Pretoria. The discussion focused on the current state of the media in South Africa, with SANEF highlighting the devastating impact of economic challenges—particularly since the COVID-19 pandemic—which has led to the closure of numerous community-based print, online, and broadcast platforms. SANEF emphasised the critical role of community media in preserving and promoting Indigenous languages, calling for greater recognition and support for these platforms.
During the session, SANEF outlined its key advocacy initiatives, including efforts to enhance access to government-related information across all three spheres of administration and among state agencies.
Additionally, SANEF used the opportunity to brief the committee on its recent Indigenous Languages and Media seminars, hosted in partnership with the Pan South African Language Board (PanSALB) and the United Nations in Pretoria. These seminars were aimed at strengthening the use and development of Indigenous languages through various media platforms.
Another major focus of SANEF’s engagement was its Digitisation Drive for Community Media, an initiative designed to improve the digital presence and sustainability of community media organisations. Through this pilot project, fifteen community publications and radio stations received support to establish viable, self-sustaining websites, alongside advanced leadership, and management training. The initiative equipped these media partners with essential digital tools and platforms, enhancing their content creation and distribution capabilities.
Recognising the industry-wide shift from traditional media—such as print newspapers and radio—to digital platforms, SANEF’s Digitisation Drive specifically supports independent community publishers and broadcasters in adapting to this transition. The program provided equitable access to technology and training, ensuring that community media could effectively reach and engage their audiences in the digital space.
Additionally, SANEF explained the Community Media Support Services (CMSS), as an ongoing initiative aiding media organisations that were not part of the initial pilot program. By bridging the digital divide, this initiative is helping community media remain relevant and financially sustainable.
SANEF also appealed to the government to fulfill its commitment of allocating at least 30% of its advertising budget to community media platforms. This measure would provide much-needed financial support to these platforms, empowering them to continue their vital work in promoting Indigenous languages and serving local communities.
SANEF remains committed to advocating for policies that ensure a sustainable and diverse media landscape in South Africa, with a strong emphasis on protecting press freedom and fostering media innovation.
Committee Chairperson Commits to Support the Work of GCIS and Media Sector
In a statement after the event, the Chairperson of the Portfolio Committee on Communication and Digital Technologies, Ms Khusela Sangoni Diko, reiterated the committee’s commitment to collaborate with the work done by Government Communication and Information Systems (GCIS) and the media sector.
As part of its week-long oversight visit to Gauteng, the committee spent the whole day at the GCIS offices in Pretoria on Wednesday engaging with the GCIS on its value chain across all spheres of government as well as compliance with the 30% government Adspend for community media.
The committee was then dismayed to learn about the non-existent of policy, regulation and legislative framework upon which the GCIS can rely on to enforce this crucial undertaking by government, which was designed to augment the Media Development and Diversity Agency’s (MDDA’s) funding stream for the community media. Ms Diko said that the matter should be given attention, if the country is serious about developing the much-needed community media.
The committee also engaged with MDDA and the Association of Independent Publishers (AIP) on the status of community print and online media on sustainability in a digital age.
Although acknowledging the need for transformation to digital platforms and the use of artificial intelligence by the community media, the committee chairperson emphasised the importance of preserving the print community newspapers. “We call for digital first, and not digital only as we seek to transform and guarantee the sustainability of community media,” she said.
She also welcomed the Digital Media Transformation Fund set aside by AIP and Google to fund community digital media platforms, saying the initiative will go a long way in transforming the community media space.
The last part of the programme consisted of two segments of panel discussions on advertising in community newspapers and online media by GCIS, Business Unity South Africa, Media Mix and Capro as well as promotion of indigenous language media by GCIS, PanSalb and the South African National Editors Forum.
Ms Diko said that the committee will take all discussions into consideration when compiling an oversight report, which will consist of clear recommendations on the way forward.
Media Milestone Against Big Tech’s Unfair Competition
The South African National Editors’ Forum (Sanef) has achieved a significant milestone in its fight against unfair competition from big tech firms. The organisation has welcomed the provisional findings and remedies released by the Competition Commission Media and Digital Platforms Market Inquiry (MDPMI).
This development marks a crucial step in addressing the challenges faced by the South African media landscape, which has been severely impacted by the rise of digital platforms and social media over the past two decades.
The inquiry was a landmark investigation into the impact of major technology companies on the country’s media industry. The report has validated longstanding concerns that tech giants such as Google, Meta, and X (formerly Twitter) have undermined South African journalism, depriving media houses of much-needed revenue and contributing to widespread job losses in the industry.
This inquiry, which has drawn international attention, follows similar battles in countries such as Canada and Australia, where governments have pushed for financial restitution from Big Tech to support their national news industries.
The commission’s findings offer a glimmer of hope for South African media houses, which have seen their advertising revenues gutted over the last two decades due to the dominance of digital platforms. However, the battle is far from over, as initial reactions from tech firms indicate they are unlikely to comply without resistance.
With AI-driven search and social platforms reshaping how people find news and information, how can media organisations stay visible and valued? Is this a turning point for journalism or just another difficult chapter? And what changes will help newsrooms maintain their essential role in their communities and remain sustainable?
The MDPMI’s findings paint a stark picture of how Big Tech’s dominance has affected the local media landscape. Over the past two decades, the number of journalists in South Africa has been cut in half, leaving newsrooms understaffed and overburdened. Community media outlets, which play a crucial role in ensuring media plurality and accessibility, have been hit the hardest, with many shutting down due to financial constraints.
Sanef and other media advocacy groups have long argued that digital platforms have built their business models on the content produced by news organisations without offering fair compensation.
While tech companies claim they provide value by directing traffic to news websites, the commission’s report found that this is far from sufficient to offset the damage they have caused. Google, for instance, is estimated to generate between R800 million and R900 million annually from news-related searches, while local media only sees about R200 million in referral benefits.
The issue extends beyond financial losses. The rise of social media and algorithm-driven content curation has also facilitated the spread of misinformation and cyberbullying, further weakening the credibility of traditional news sources. Additionally, artificial intelligence (AI) tools, which aggregate and summarise news content without permission, threaten to erode media revenue even further by reducing the need for audiences to visit news websites.
Proposed Remedies and Challenges Ahead
One of the key recommendations in the report is that Google should contribute between R300 million and R500 million per year into a Journalism Sustainability Fund over the next three to five years. Sanef, while acknowledging this as a step in the right direction, argues that this amount is too conservative given the scale of damage inflicted on the industry. Furthermore, the report suggests that YouTube should increase its revenue share for local media and that Meta should adjust its algorithm to prioritise South African news sources.
Beyond direct compensation, the commission has proposed regulatory measures to address digital advertising monopolies and AI content scraping. These include imposing levies on tech companies that fail to adequately compensate media outlets, as well as creating mechanisms to allow publishers to opt out of AI-driven content use without losing search engine visibility.
However, it remains uncertain whether these measures will be implemented effectively. Google has already signaled resistance, with spokesperson Ekaterina Kondratieva dismissing claims that the company disproportionately benefits from news content. If past experiences in other countries are any indication, tech firms may threaten to block South African news content altogether rather than comply with new regulations.
A Turning Point for Media Freedom and Democracy
The MDPMI report is not just about financial compensation—it is about preserving South Africa’s democratic institutions. The Competition Commission has made it clear that a thriving, independent media is fundamental to upholding the country’s constitutional right to information. Without adequate funding, journalism will continue to decline, leaving citizens vulnerable to misinformation and weakening the country’s democratic foundations.
Media experts warn that if Big Tech remains unchecked, the consequences will be dire. The decline of journalism has already led to increased juniorisation of newsrooms, fewer investigative reports, and a heavier reliance on syndicated content, all of which undermine the role of the press as a watchdog. If the government fails to enforce meaningful regulations, South Africa risks falling into a media crisis where high-quality news becomes a luxury rather than a public good.
The Road Ahead: What Comes Next?
Stakeholders, including Sanef, have been given four months to engage with the findings and make further submissions before the final report is released later this year. The outcome of this process will determine whether South Africa can set a precedent for other countries facing similar battles with Big Tech, or if it will succumb to the same fate as news industries that have failed to secure fair remuneration.
For now, Sanef remains cautiously optimistic but resolute. The organisation is calling on all media stakeholders, policymakers, and civil society groups to rally behind the report’s recommendations and push for stronger enforcement mechanisms. The fight for media sustainability is far from over, but with coordinated effort and political will, South Africa has a chance to reclaim control over its news industry and safeguard press freedom for future generations.
The South African National Editors’ Forum (Sanef) welcomes the provisional findings and remedies released by the Competition Commission Media and Digital Platforms Market Inquiry (MDPMI).
Sanef led calls together with other media advocacy groups and organisations in 2023 to make representations to the Competition Commission on unfair commercial practices by the big tech companies which have negatively impacted SA media. The South African media landscape has been decimated over the past 20 years due to the digitisation and social media usage. The MDPMI report shows the journalism workforce has been halved in the same period.
Few countries in the world (Canada and Australia) have challenged the big tech firms for compensation. The world has been waiting to see how SA fares in this Inquiry.
The commission found that freedom of expression, plurality, and diversity of media, which are entrenched in our Constitution, have been seriously infringed upon. The impact of these tech firms has been particularly devastating for local/community media, most of which not only suffered financial losses but had to retrench workers and shut down operations with calamitous consequences.
Other consequences of market dominance by big tech firms have been the spread of mis and disinformation and cyberbullying.
The Inquiry further highlights the important role played by the news media, not only concerning competition laws but also human rights, which was central to Sanef’s submissions.
Sanef welcomes the finding of the report, that the big techs – X (formerly Twitter), Meta, Google, and YouTube, among others – have all contributed to losses by SA media companies. Sanef also has some questions about the remedies and recommendations, in terms of quantum.
The report recommends R300-500 million of compensation by Google, over a three to five years period, but Sanef believes the big techies ought to be held accountable for losses already incurred too. Quantitatively, the R300-500 million appears too conservative given the scale of the damage done to South African media in general.
Part of the Inquiry’s recommendations was the establishment of a Journalism Sustainability Fund. Sanef has already initiated this and is appealing to companies for donations towards it. Tax breaks were also recommended including a levy on Google searches, which the government can take on, if it agrees with the commission’s remedies.
The report dealt with Ad tech, AI and chatbots, social media, and disinformation, people receiving their news from Google searches while recognising that digital platforms do not create content themselves. They aggregate content that was produced by paid journalists whose organisations incur massive costs in news production.
Sanef calls on all stakeholders to engage with the Competition Commission report and make submissions in the next four months. The final report will be released later this year.
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.
The Free Expression Legal Network: A New Era for Media Freedom
Judge Navi Pillay addresses the launch of the Free Expression Legal Network in Sandton.
In a landmark initiative to defend media freedom and uphold free expression, the Free Expression Legal Network was officially launched in Johannesburg on February 18, 2025, to fortify legal protections for those who risk their lives and careers to bring truth to the public.
At its first Council meeting for 2025, in Cape Town, the South African National Editors’ Forum (Sanef) elected Makhudu Sefara as its new chairperson.
Sefara is the editor of the Sunday Times and previously chaired Sanef’s Media Freedom sub-committee.
He replaces Nwabisa Makunga who relinquished the position following her promotion to an executive role at Arena.
Sefara thanked his predecessor for her leadership and challenged the organisation to follow in her footsteps in defending media freedom and strengthening the industry that is facing strong economic headwinds.
“I take this opportunity seriously and note that it comes at a time when the industry is facing a myriad of challenges. Many newsrooms are asking the question of how they are going to turn the corner without losing faith and hoping for better solutions as they go through retrenchments and having critical positions frozen, which has an impact on the quality of the work and therefore an impact on the quality of the contribution journalism makes to our much-cherished democracy,” Sefara said.
He thanked all newsroom leaders for continuing to do a sterling job of telling the South African story and “doing this not for themselves but for the country even with limited capacity”.
Slindile Khanyile, publishing editor of Umbele, an isiZulu financial publication, is the new chairperson of the SANEF Media Freedom sub-committee.
Sanef also congratulated Phathiswa Magopeni on her appointment as the new Executive Director of the Press Council of South Africa. Thivhudzi Lukoto, executive producer at SAFM: News and Current Affairs, is Sanef’s new representative at the PCSA.
The Minister’s address
Basic Education Minister, Siviwe Gwarube, addressed the council where she emphasised the importance of strong media in the functioning of our democracy.
Even with challenges facing newsrooms due to the economic challenges in the sector, Gwarube said South Africa should never underestimate the privilege it has of a free media that is “able to hold those entrusted with the power to account, inform and critique the government without journalists landing in jail”.
“Free press is fundamental when it comes to a constitutional democracy, it can’t thrive without a free press that is capable of exposing wrongdoing,” she said.
The minister shared her department’s plans and priorities over the next five years.
She spoke about the importance of fixing the country’s broken education system with a focus on developing the foundation phase. The country has to inject quality education from early child childhood development, instead of over-emphasising Matric results and using it as a barometer of the country’s education system.
“We cannot have an education system that is stitched together by interventions where learners in Grades 10, 11, and 12 are sent to boot camps and kept in schools around the clock just to make them obtain good Matric pass rates,” said Gwarube.
Challenges and opportunities of freelance journalism
Sanef discussed the research report on the plight of freelance journalists, which painted a bleak future for freelance writers and described their working conditions as untenable. It noted the profound transformations in media labour and the limited research on the state and working conditions of freelance journalists.
Sanef partnered with the Henry Nxumalo Foundation to commission a study aimed at understanding the current state of freelance journalism in South Africa.
The research report highlights both the challenges and opportunities of freelance journalism in the country – noting that freelance journalism has become increasingly prominent, especially in South Africa, a trend exacerbated by the COVID-19 pandemic and its normalisation of remote work.
Sanef will amend its constitution to allow senior freelancers to become members and repurpose its Community Media sub-committee to also include issues affecting freelancers.
Sanef has decided to draft a charter of minimum norms and standards for engaging freelancers. This charter will be shared with newsrooms around the country as guidelines for editors to help improve the working conditions of freelancers in the industry. Sanef has tasked veteran journalist, Anton Harber, to lead the process of drafting the guidelines for the media sector.
Cutting off financial assistance
Sanef noted the move by U.S. President Donald Trump to cut funding to USAID. Sanef is concerned by this move, and how it will harm the functioning of some organisations that do media advocacy work and investigative journalism.
Media’s role in an SA G20 year
Sanef has decided to proceed with a programme of events, consultations, and inputs aimed at bringing attention to issues affecting the media in Africa and the world – to coincide with South Africa’s Presidency of the G20 and the country’s hosting of the G20 Summit in November 2025.
This work will focus on the media, highlighting the role of AI in journalism, information integrity, and taking forward issues raised during Brazil’s Presidency of the G20 in 2024. Several local and international media development organisations have already expressed an interest in participating, including media representatives from G20 countries.
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.
The South African National Editors’ Forum (Sanef) mourns the untimely passing of Anelisa Sibanda, affectionately known as MaNdaba. The 27-year-old journalist, described as a rising star in the media industry, passed away on Monday at a Johannesburg hospital after being rushed there due to stomach pain.
Sibanda’s aunt, Siphephelaphi Sibanda, expressed the family’s devastation: “We are all shocked by her sudden passing, as we were still expecting so much from her. Anelisa was a respectful youngster with a bright future ahead.”
After graduating from Tshwane University of Technology (TUT), Sibanda joined Sunday World in 2021 as an intern. She contributed to its online platform and quickly gained recognition for her talent and dedication. Her colleagues described her as humble, self-driven, and passionate about journalism—a ray of hope who inspired those around her.
Sunday World acting editor, Ngwako Malatji, shared his sorrow: “When I heard of Anelisa’s passing, I was gutted. My heart is bleeding. She was a rising star who served Sunday World with loyalty and compassion. She had so much to offer, but her journey ended too soon. To the Sibanda family, thank you for sharing Anelisa with us. May her soul rest in peace.”
Sibanda’s co-workers spoke fondly of her work ethic and warm personality. Layout designer, Matshepo Serage-Mahlulo said: “Anelisa was respectful, passionate, and always willing to help. She ensured her work was exceptional. She was polite, friendly, and beautiful—a joy to be around.”
Former colleague Maseipati Tsotsotso, who mentored Sibanda, said: “She was sweet, humble, and eager to learn. Her hunger for excellence was remarkable, and her presence lit up the room. Her passing is heartbreaking—she had so much ahead of her.”
Sports reporter Siyasanga Monoalibe, added, “Anelisa was one of the easiest people to work with. I’m grateful I had the opportunity to know her. May her beautiful soul rest in eternal glory.”
Sibanda’s best friend and Sunday World entertainment writer, Mbalenhle Zuma, paid a heartfelt tribute: “Anelisa was more than a colleague — she was like a sister to me. Her positivity and quick wit brightened everyone’s day. Her contagious laughter and unwavering support made her an invaluable friend. Heaven has gained an angel, but we are shattered by this loss.”
Another close friend and former colleague, Coceka Magubeni, shared her disbelief: “We had so much in common — our upbringing, morals, and aspirations. We were inseparable. I’m still trying to come to terms with the fact that I can’t text her about my day. She was a constant presence in my life.”
Former colleague Bongani Mdakane reflected on her ambition: “Anelisa was a shining light, a feisty young woman with big dreams. She made her mark in journalism, and her legacy will endure. May her soul rest in power.”
Sunday World’s layout designer Muzi Hadebe said: “We are all shattered by her loss. Anelisa was kind, loving, and respectful. Her death came as a shock. May her soul rest in peace.”
Sports editor Kgomotso Mokoena added: “When I met Anelisa, I saw a dreamer eager to make her mark in journalism. She faced challenges but never gave up. Her kind demeanour and attention to detail set her apart. Her untimely death is heartbreaking. Condolences to her family, friends, and loved ones.”
Anelisas’s death is a profound loss to the journalism community. Her dedication, kindness, and ambition left an indelible mark on those who knew her. Sanef extends its deepest condolences to her family, friends, and colleagues during this difficult time.
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.
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.
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