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Media Freedom

SANEF’s AGM resolves to strengthen the efforts of the Media Defence Legal Fund – and stands in support of journalists in Palestine and Kenya

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The South African National Editors’ Forum (SANEF), at its annual general meeting (AGM) at the weekend condemned the continued harassment and abuse our journalists experience in our courts, and those seeking to take news titles to court.

SANEF resolved to work closely with various local and international stakeholders as it seeks to formalise the establishment of a Media Defence Legal Fund. The purpose of the Fund will be to support journalists and media houses, particularly against those who use lawfare to intimidate news media.

One of the immediate matters on our radar regards the MK Party’s intention to take the SABC to court over the use of the Government of National Unity (GNU) definition, a move by the political party that we explicitly oppose. SANEF intends to become a friend of the court.

New Leadership

The Sowetan’s editor, former deputy chair of SANEF, Nwabisa Makunga, was elected as chairperson at this elective AGM, with the previous chairperson, Sbu Ngalwa, now assuming the treasurer-general role. Tshamano Makhadi is now the deputy chairperson and Glenda Daniels retains her position as secretary-general.

Dunisani Ntsanwisi was re-elected to be the chairperson of the community sub-committee; Katy Katopodis was also re-elected to be the chairperson of the journalism wellness and safety sub-committee; Makhudu Sefara was also re-elected to lead the media freedom sub-committee; Phathiswa Magopeni continues to lead the education and training sub-committee and Nicki Gules and Asanda Ngoasheng lead the diversity and ethics sub-committee.

Dianne Hawker is now the convenor in Gauteng, she will be supported by Heather Robertson, while Judy Sandison continues as convenor in KwaZulu-Natal, supported by Slindile Khanyile. In the Eastern Cape, Rochelle de Kock continues as convenor, Jude Mathurine will support her, while in the Western Cape, Sisanda Nkoala is the convenor, and Marenet Jordaan will support her. 

Constitution Review

The AGM further resolved to review the organisation’s constitution, to be led by a review committee that the management committee would appoint. The review will be presented at SANEF’s next Council meeting in September. The review committee intends to look at several clauses that need clarity, such as the establishment of sub-committees.

Press Council of South Africa (PCSA)

The AGM resolved to allocate a percentage of funds raised from SANEF’s annual fundraiser dinner to financially support the Press Council of SA (PCSA). The PCSA remains independent and continues to do invaluable work with online and print media. Its continued sustainability concerns SANEF, hence we resolved to support it as much as we can.

Journalists in Palestine and Kenya

The AGM noted the continued killing of journalists in Palestine; since October 7, there have been 162 journalists killed. The latest to be killed was this past weekend when an Israeli strike targeting the central Gaza Strip killed a Palestinian journalist. Our hearts and support continue to be with the working media, and we reiterate the urgent call for the protection of journalists, and the killings to cease.

In Kenya, journalists are constantly harassed and shot at by a brutal police force. We join our media colleagues across the continent in condemning these senseless violent acts, carried out by a police force driven who are anti journalists.

Standard Bank Sikuvile Journalism Awards (SBSJA)

SANEF’s newly elected management committee and council wish to congratulate all the winners of the Standard Bank Sikuvile Journalist Awards, particularly, Lucas Ledwaba, for being awarded the Journalist of the Year, in 2024.

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
Safety & Wellness

SANEF Calls on MK Party Leadership to Act Against Those Who Ill-treated Journalists at Their Rally at Orlando Stadium

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21 May 2024

“I was pushed aside by a man who touched my breasts as he aggressively wanted to make way for the arrival of Jacob Zuma”.

This was the account of one of the journalists who attended the MK Party rally at Orlando Stadium in Soweto. She told the South African National Editors’ Forum (SANEF) that there were numerous complaints of harassment, intimidation, and aggressive behaviour towards journalists covering the rally – particularly female journalists.

Another journalist told SANEF how they were elbowed, by men wearing military fatigues, who became extremely aggressive by the minute.

SANEF condemns the acts of violence against journalists and calls on the leadership of the Jacob Zuma-led MK Party to act against those involved.

We will not tolerate such behaviour at political rallies, where political principals often fail to call their supporters to behave accordingly and afford journalists the space to do their work.

Last month SANEF shared its Statement of Commitment on Media Freedom and the Protection of Journalists, with The Electoral Commission of South Africa (IEC), which expands on Item 8 of the Electoral Code of Conduct on the role of the media. This states that the media must be enabled to perform its constitutionally mandated duties and functions in the public interest without fear, threat, or undue restriction.

It is disheartening that the MK Party bullies disregarded this important principle last Saturday. Unfortunately, we have not heard a word from the party’s leadership, in response to these dreadful incidents.

SANEF Statement of Commitment calls on all registered parties, candidates, and independent candidates to commit to

  • Not engage in any act of intimidation, harassment, harm, or other unlawful conduct against any media representative.
  • Not using any language, insinuation, or conduct that may provoke, encourage, or incite office-bearers, representatives, members, or supporters to intimidate, harass or harm any media representative, either on- or offline.
  • Not supporting or condoning any intimidation, harassment, or harm committed against any media representative.
  • Not supporting or condoning any abusive acts against any media representative through any form of communication, including anonymous calls or online threats.
  • Not singling out any media representative at any meeting, rally, or similar gathering in a manner that may lead to intimidation, harassment, or harmful conduct against that person.

With the elections on May 29, around the corner, SANEF calls on all political parties to respect journalists and their work. Journalists must be given the space to do the work without being disrespected or abused – particularly female journalists who continue to be intimidated, bullied, harassed and face horrendous, misogynistic treatment from some of the supporters, and sometimes the leaders, of political parties.

SANEF is of the view that parties that do not discourage such aggressive behaviour from their supporters, should not be surprised if some newsrooms choose not to send any staff to report on events where they are likely to be subjected to abuse.

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:

  • Sbu Ngalwa – SANEF Chairperson (073) 404-1415
  • Nwabisa Makunga – SANEF Deputy Chairperson (082) 555-1972
  • Dr. Glenda Daniels – SANEF Secretary-General (083) 229-9708
  • Tshamano Makhadi – Treasurer-General (082) 223-0621
  • Makhudu Sefara – SANEF 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
  • Reggy Moalusi – SANEF Executive Director (071) 682-3695

 

Safety & Wellness

SANEF and SADAG Partner to Help Journalists Deal With Covering Traumatic Stories

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Thursday, 16 May 2024 

The South African National Editors’ Forum (SANEF) has once again partnered with the South African Depression and Anxiety Group (SADAG) to help journalists deal with the many traumatic stories they cover.

The recent devastating building collapse in George has seen journalists on the front lines for days on end, tasked with reporting the harrowing details and stories of loss. While their dedication to informing the public is commendable, it is essential to recognise the toll that covering such traumatic events can take on journalists’ mental health.

Witnessing scenes of devastation, interviewing rescue workers amidst despair, and detailing tragic losses can deeply impact journalists. This can lead to symptoms of Trauma or a Trauma Response or can lead to Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD).

SADAG and SANEF urge journalists experiencing distress or struggling with the emotional aftermath of covering traumatic events to seek help and support. We are committed to promoting mental health awareness and providing resources within the media industry. Remember, reaching out for assistance is not a sign of weakness but a courageous step towards healing and resilience. We remain committed to mental health awareness and support in the media industry.

We understand the importance of equipping journalists with tools to cope with these challenges and prioritise their well-being and provide key resources and support services to help them cope with the impact.

“We call on all journalists dealing with this – or any other deeply traumatic stories – to reach out to SADAG for help and support,” said Katy Katopodis. Chair of SANEF’s Journalism Wellness and Safety Committee.

Katopodis added “We also strongly encourage newsroom editors to offer all the necessary support to their teams and introduce regular newsroom debrief sessions.”

Recognizing Symptoms of Trauma:

It is crucial for journalists to be aware of the signs and symptoms of trauma or PTSD, including:

  • Flashbacks or intrusive memories or visuals of traumatic events (these can also include sounds, smells or even visual memories or flashbacks)
  • Difficulty sleeping or nightmares.
  • Increased irritability, agitation, or anger
  • Feelings of numbness or detachment
  • Avoidance of reminders of the traumatic event
  • Difficulty concentrating or making decisions.

Coping Strategies and Resources:

Here are eight practical tips for coping with trauma:

  1. Seek Support: Reach out to trusted friends, family members, or mental health professionals for emotional support and guidance. Talking about your feelings and experiences can help alleviate stress and promote healing.
  2. Practice Self-Care: Prioritize self-care activities such as exercise, meditation, journaling, or engaging in hobbies that bring you joy. Taking care of your physical and emotional well-being is essential for coping with trauma.
  3. Establish Routine: Establishing a daily routine can provide a sense of stability and predictability, helping you regain a sense of control amidst chaos. Stick to regular sleep patterns, mealtimes, and activities to promote stability and structure in your life.
  4. Limit Media Exposure: While staying informed is important and part of a journalist’s job, excessive exposure to media coverage of traumatic events can exacerbate feelings of distress and anxiety. Limit your consumption of news and social media to prevent overwhelm and reduce triggers in-between work shifts.
  5. Practice Relaxation Techniques: Incorporate relaxation techniques such as deep breathing exercises, progressive muscle relaxation, or guided imagery into your daily routine to reduce stress and promote relaxation.
  6. Engage in Positive Activities: Engage in activities that bring you joy and provide a distraction from negative thoughts and emotions. Spend time with loved ones, pursue hobbies, listen to music you enjoy, watch your favourite movie, or participate in activities that promote relaxation and enjoyment.
  7. Express Yourself: Find healthy outlets for expressing your thoughts and emotions, such as writing in a journal, creating art, or talking to a therapist. Expressing yourself creatively can help process emotions and release pent-up tension.
  8. Seek Professional Help: If you are struggling to cope with trauma on your own, do not hesitate to seek professional help from a therapist or counsellor. Professional support can provide guidance, validation, and coping strategies tailored to your individual needs.

Helpful Resources

To support journalists in coping with trauma, here are resources that can assist:

  • Employee Assistance Program (EAP): Many media organizations provide free confidential EAP services to employees, offering counselling and support for mental health concerns. Journalists are encouraged to reach out to their organization’s EAP for assistance.
  • South African National Editors’ Forum (SANEF): SANEF provides resources and support for journalists, including guidance on ethical reporting practices and advocacy for press freedom. Journalists can access SANEF’s support services for assistance and guidance.
  • South African Depression and Anxiety Group (SADAG): SADAG offers free telephone counselling on its toll-free Trauma Helpline (0800 20 50 26) which is available 7 days a week and provides nationwide resources for individuals experiencing mental health issues, including trauma-related symptoms. Journalists can reach out to SADAG for confidential support, trauma debriefing and referrals to mental health professionals through a dedicated SMS 31985 support service (available 24 hours a day)
  • If you are on a medical aid, from the most basic hospital plan to the top executive plan, you have access to Prescribed Minimum Benefits (PMBs) which provides you with hospital admission for psychotherapy/counselling for up to 3 days, or up to 12 outpatient psychotherapy/counselling sessions for acute stress disorder following a traumatic event. These Prescribed Minimum Benefits does not come out of your savings benefit, it is fully covered by your medical aid. Contact your medical aid directly and ask them how to access these PMB benefits, they will also guide you to psychologists within your network or benefit scheme.

“As journalists continue their vital work of reporting on crisis situations, we urge media organizations to prioritize the mental health of their staff and provide access to necessary support services. Normalising mental health support to help journalists cope with trauma is the first step to breaking the stigma and improving help seeking behaviour amongst press and media – whether they are an editor, journalist, camera man or sound engineer – there is help available,” says SADAG’s Operations Director, Cassey Chambers. By taking proactive steps to address trauma and promote self-care, we can ensure the well-being of journalists while upholding the principles of ethical reporting and public service.

ENDS.

For more information or to arrange interviews, please contact:

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.

 

Media Freedom

SANEF calls for an end to cyberbullying of women journalists on this International Women’s Day

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On 08 March 2024, the South African National Editors’ Forum (SANEF) condemns the repeated targeting of female journalists on social media and other platforms. Technology-assisted Gender-Based Violence (GBV), otherwise known as cyberbullying or cyber harassment is on the rise in South Africa, with women as the main targets.

Women in media, politics and any public-facing profession are most at risk with 49% of women journalists experiencing some form of online abuse through hateful language at some point in their career.

The state of cyberbullying in South Africa is alarming, with women journalists having to be moved because of threats. Social media platforms, messaging apps and discussion sites are used to spread hate and misogyny against women journalists by perpetrators hiding behind anonymous accounts.

Content that expresses hate against women and girls is now shared beyond national borders in the ‘Manosphere’ and the male ‘Incel’ community which expands the range of unsafe spaces for women. This is concerning because the digital space is often lauded for its ability to allow for self-expression to all, regardless of status and identity.

However, the digital space is now replicating the real world and is increasingly unsafe for women as it has become a breeding ground for a range of exclusionary and violent discourses and beliefs, expressed and disseminated in a context of anonymity and impunity.

Cyberbullying joins an already long list of women’s struggles in the media. Despite women journalists contributing a lot to the media industry, from reporting from the front lines of warzones to ensuring citizens are kept informed this year – where over 60 countries will hold elections – they are still not safe from harm. They face bullying and sexual harassment in the workplace from bosses, peers, and employees who report to them and interview subjects which makes it difficult for them to do their job effectively. Women are still fighting to be paid the same as their peers with gender pay gaps increasing globally.

Women are regularly passed over for promotion in preference of their male peers. This has added to the increasing underrepresentation of women in decision-making roles in newsrooms and beyond. The exclusion from leadership positions in media means women’s voices, the majority in the SA population, are missing which has a negative impact on how women’s stories are covered and the kinds of narratives around gender and gender inequality that make it onto the front pages. Even when women do have senior positions, they are often not allowed to make decisions which further dilutes their ability to contribute to gender advocacy narratives.

South Africa was initially leading in women’s representation in the newsroom but has recently been found to be regressing. Reuters Institute research found that in 2020 South Africa had 60% women in leadership in media, while in 2024 the number has dropped to 20%.

Legal journalist, Karyn Maughn, is one of the women journalists who has experienced numerous incidents of real-world and cyber harassment in South Africa. Most recently, she was attacked in a purported “opinion piece” published in the Sunday Independent. The piece went beyond a publication giving a platform to someone to air their views but was a malicious and violent attack on Maughn for simply doing her job as a journalist. The accompanying picture/graphic on the article had a gun pointed at her image, which was a clear indication of its intention to incite violence against her.

Incitement of violence violates the press code and should be taken seriously by all concerned about media freedom. External opinion needs to be based on fact and not be malicious or breach the press code.

This International Women’s Day, we are further outraged by the long-suffering of journalists, particularly female journalists in Gaza. For five months, journalists have been subjected to harsh, unthinkable conditions as they seek to tell the story of the war they are living through.

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 through fighting for media freedom, writing policy submissions, research, and education and training programmes. SANEF is not a union.

For more information please contact:

  • Sbu Ngalwa – SANEF Chairperson (073) 404-1415
  • Nwabisa Makunga – SANEF Deputy Chairperson (082) 555-1972
  • Prof Glenda Daniels – SANEF Secretary-General (083) 229-9708
  • Tshamano Makhadi – Treasurer-General (082) 223 0621
  • Makhudu Sefara – SANEF Media Freedom Chair (079) 177-2134
  • Katy Katopodis – SANEF Wellness and Safety Chair (082) 805-7022
  • Judy Sandison – SANEF KZN Convenor (082) 571-3334
  • Heather Robertson – SANEF Gauteng Convenor (083) 3085618
  • Rochelle De Kock – SANEF Eastern Cape Convenor (072) 969-8028
  • Asanda Ngoasheng – SANEF Western Cape Convenor (082) 610 9374
  • Reggy Moalusi – SANEF Executive Director (071) 682-3695

 

Media Freedom

SANEF lambasts the continued imprisonment of freelance journalist, Thomo Nkgadima

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SundayWorld-journalist-Thomo-Nkgadima

28 December 2023

The South African National Editors’ Forum (SANEF) has learned that Limpopo-based freelance journalist, Thomo Nkgadima, continues to languish in prison after being arrested for taking pictures of a mayor’s house.

Sunday World has informed SANEF that on 24 December, Nkgadima was arrested on charges of trespassing and intimidation after he took pictures of the house of Eddie Maila, the mayor of Fetakgomo Tubatse municipality in Burgersfort, Limpopo.

Nkgadima took pictures of the house from the outside, in Praktiseer, where there are alleged illegal electrical connections, and the mayor’s house is in the said area.

After spending Christmas in jail, Nkgadima appeared in court on 27 December, where he was denied bail, despite facing Schedule 1 charges. Nkgadima and Sunday World are in consultation with legal representatives, who will hopefully help with his release.

SANEF is disappointed that such charges were brought forward, against a journalist who was doing his job and never trespassed on Maila’s property, nor intimidated anyone.

Editors at Sunday World have informed SANEF that Maila has previously threatened Nkgadima because the latter sought to do his work as a journalist. This is a worrying development that SANEF has always condemned. Our democracy requires that journalists be allowed to do their work without any inhibitions.

SANEF hopes the court will make a sensible decision in offering Nkgadima a fair hearing and, when the time arrives, fully hear his side of the story.

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 through fighting for media freedom, writing policy submissions, research, and education and training programmes. SANEF is not a union.

For more information please contact:

  • Sbu Ngalwa – SANEF Chairperson (073) 404-1415
  • Nwabisa Makunga – SANEF Deputy Chairperson (082) 555-1972
  • Qaanitah Hunter – SANEF Secretary-General
  • Tshamano Makhadi – Treasurer-General (082) 223 0621
  • Makhudu Sefara – SANEF Media Freedom Chair (079) 177-2134
  • Judy Sandison – SANEF KZN Convenor (082) 571-3334
  • Dr. Glenda Daniels – SANEF Gauteng Convenor (083) 229-9708
  • Rochelle De Kock – SANEF Eastern Cape Convenor (072) 969-8028
  • Reggy Moalusi – SANEF Executive Director (071) 682-369

 

Media Freedom

SANEF Decries the Heavy Loss of Forty-two Journalists and Media Workers in the War on Gaza

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20 November 2023

This past Saturday the South African National Editors’ Forum (SANEF) held a successful last council of 2023 in Johannesburg where pertinent media freedom and industry related issues were discussed – including the relentless Israeli war in Gaza where many journalists have been killed and injured.

As of November 18, according to the Committee to Protect Journalists (CPJ’s) preliminary investigations showed at least 42 journalists and media workers were among the more than 13,000 killed in Gaza since the war began on October 7— with over 11,000 Palestinian deaths in Gaza and the West Bank and 1,200 deaths in Israel.

SANEF is deeply concerned at the ongoing carnage in Gaza and the fact that CPJ and Reporters Without Borders believe the Israeli military is deliberately targeting journalists who tell the true story of events in Gaza. Several media premises and working spaces have been targeted and destroyed.

SANEF also finds it unacceptable that aid convoys to the devastated region have been severely restricted and the Israeli government has refused entry to Gaza for international journalists and insists that only journalists covering the current actions of its army must be embedded with their military.

The role of journalists is to seek out as honestly as possible the facts and, in this regard, SANEF salutes the work done by our colleagues based in Gaza and by the United Nations and non-governmental workers who have reported on conditions as they have experienced them.

We also call on all journalists and editors, dealing with reports from this region, to be conscious always of the historical context and to take care of the terminology used in reports. It is not the role of journalists to justify, support or condemn any group or the actions groups undertake. Journalists should merely provide all the facts available and place all events in as full a context as possible.

Police Minister

The hybrid council meeting was addressed by Police Minister Bheki Cele who was accompanied by the National Police Commissioner, General Fannie Masemola and his deputy, General Shadrack Sibiya.

Minister Cele assured the gathering that the SAPS was ready to assist the Electoral Commission of South Africa (IEC) to conduct a peaceful, free, and fair elections in 2024.

“We have already seen the worst possible scenario in this country where we had to send the army to help maintain peace and ensure free and fair elections in KwaZulu Natal during the first two elections,” he said.

Cele said the recent developments in Gaza has made him feel for the safety of journalists in the region. It was therefore important for the SAPS to work closely with journalists and ensure that there was a good working relationship where everyone respected the working space of the other.

He said the SAPS was working to rebuild the specialised units that were systematically compromised or destroyed in previous years such as the intelligence structures. He appreciated the fact that 30 000 new recruits will beef up the number of boots on the ground. He further called on media houses to work on the challenges facing the industry, including the juniorisation of newsrooms which leads to inaccurate, unfair, and imbalanced reporting about SAPS matters.

Other Matters

The meeting also discussed various other issues that ranged from media freedom, media sustainability and legal challenges faced by the media.

Concerns were raised about the continued failure of President Cyril Ramaphosa to provide space for media engagement beyond the one-way national addresses that he has been giving over the past three years. Journalists felt that this has a detrimental impact on the state of media freedom and the media’s role to hold the executive to account. Further, it raises concerns about accountability, transparency, information flow, public engagement, and the international image of the country.

Journalists’ trip to Warsaw, Poland

The meeting also noted the disappointing lack of response from the Presidency to calls for an engagement with media houses about the Warsaw debacle – where several journalists who had travelled to Russia or Ukraine to cover the Africa Peace Mission, which President Ramaphosa was part of – were treated with disdain.

They could not cover any of those events as they were trapped inside a plane, upon landing in Warsaw, for over 24 hours. This is despite them having obtained visas to enter Poland. The Minister in the Presidency is yet to avail herself to address the matter. SANEF also notes that the Ambassador of Poland to South Africa, Adam Burakowski, has yet to honour the embassy’s commitment to meet with SANEF to discuss the unacceptable infringement on media freedom by his country.

Discussion with Business 4 South Africa

The council was also briefed on the Business-Government Partnership aimed at delivering meaningful progress towards South Africa’s economic growth. B4SA’s Martin Kingston and Cas Coovadia briefed the council about their role and the different workstreams tackling issues like energy, transport, logistics, as well as crime and corruption.

Kingston said business and government were exploring ways to identify areas of collaboration and also looking at existing programmes that can be significantly scaled in the short term to address the country’s priorities. The media needed to do its part in monitoring the developments and staying vigilant to ensure that it also held all parties accountable.

Independent Media titles apply to rejoin the Press Council

After seven years in the wilderness, SANEF Council noted that Independent Media has applied to rejoin the Press Council system. SANEF has repeatedly appealed to the leadership of the company to return to the country’s regulatory system. The media house opted out of the country’s print and online regulatory system in October 2016 and appointed its own in-house Ombudsman to administer and adjudicate on complaints laid against the content of its news titles. SANEF has previously expressed concerns that one of this country’s largest media companies was being a player and a referee in its adjudication of complaints against its publications. That said, we fully welcome the return of Independent Media into the fold of the Press Council.

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 through fighting for media freedom, writing policy submissions, research, and education and training programmes. SANEF is not a union.

For more information please contact:

  • Sbu Ngalwa – SANEF Chairperson (073) 404-1415
  • Nwabisa Makunga – SANEF Deputy Chairperson (082) 555-1972
  • Prof Glenda Daniels – SANEF Secretary-General (083) 229-9708
  • Tshamano Makhadi – Treasurer-General (082) 223 0621
  • Makhudu Sefara – SANEF Media Freedom Chair (079) 177-2134
  • Katy Katopodis – SANEF Wellness and Safety Chair (082) 805-7022
  • Judy Sandison – SANEF KZN Convenor (082) 571-3334
  • Heather Robertson – SANEF Gauteng Convenor (083) 3085618
  • Rochelle De Kock – SANEF Eastern Cape Convenor (072) 969-8028
  • Asanda Ngoasheng – SANEF Western Cape Convenor (082) 610 9374
  • Reggy Moalusi – SANEF Executive Director (071) 682-3695

 

Media Freedom

SANEF Condemns Assault and Horrible Treatment of Journalists

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1 November 2023

The South African National Editors’ Forum (SANEF) deplores the vicious assault of the Mpuma Kapa TV (MPKTV) news crew on Monday in the Eastern Cape.

The incident, which took place during their coverage of a story for the 6pm news bulletin at Airport Valley in Walmer, is concerning to SANEF.

The assault targeted MPKTV reporter, Jessica Bobo, and camera operator Sbu Maingo, who were fulfilling their professional duties in covering a story about the alleged hijacking of RDP houses.

As Maingo was diligently recording the incident, a group of individuals accused of the hijacking turned hostile, demanding the cessation of recording. Despite Maingo attempting to hand the camera over to the reporter, the group attacked him, forcibly throwing him against a fence, and inflicting injuries to his face, ribs, and neck.

Bobo, in an attempt to seek assistance, was also attacked by the group. Maingo is currently recovering at home, bearing bruises, and experiencing considerable discomfort from the assault.

This incident not only highlights the increasing dangers faced by journalists but also underscores the imperative nature of the relationship between communities and journalists. Journalists play a pivotal role in bringing crucial information to the public, and their safety and freedom in performing their duties must be safeguarded.

This incident, among others, not only signifies the rise in criminal acts against media professionals but also illustrates the distressing levels of disrespect towards journalists. SANEF is deeply concerned by the growing frequency of such criminality in our communities, an issue that requires urgent attention and action.

SANEF calls upon law enforcement authorities to investigate this appalling assault swiftly and thoroughly on the MPKTV news crew. Furthermore, we urge stronger measures to ensure the safety and protection of journalists as they conduct their vital role in keeping the public informed.

We stand in solidarity with the affected journalists and emphasize the importance of upholding press freedom and the safety of media practitioners in the pursuit of their duties.

On a separate matter – SANEF has disappointingly learnt of an unfortunate event where there was the unjustifiable expulsion of Ofhani Munyai, a respected sportswriter with FarPost Media and the South African Football Journalists Association (SAFJA) Provincial Representative in Limpopo, from the media event held by Polokwane City, a Premier Soccer League (PSL) team, in Limpopo on Tuesday.

Munyai, who was attending the Carling Knockout Media Open Day at the invitation of the PSL, found himself abruptly asked to leave the press conference, which was set up for an interview with Coach, Phuti Mohafe. A club official, Abraham Ramoroka, citing instructions from the club’s chair, demanded Munyai’s departure, providing no justifiable reasons for this action.

In response to this unjust expulsion, Munyai notified his colleagues, who, in a display of solidarity, chose to leave the event as well. This regrettable incident not only undermines the principles of press freedom and fair media access but also hampers the free flow of information to the public, a right that should be upheld and protected.

SANEF is deeply concerned by this incident, especially as there have been no prior issues or disputes reported between the club and Mr. Munyai in his capacity as a journalist. The actions taken against him are not only unwarranted but also impede the journalistic duty of reporting objectively and without bias.

Moreover, SANEF is cognisant of the broader challenges faced by soccer reporters, including instances where female reporters are subjected to belittlement or inappropriate treatment, often infused with sexual undertones. This is a distressing pattern that undermines the professionalism and integrity of media professionals.

SANEF reiterates the agreements reached during the roundtable meeting with the South African Football Association (SAFA), where it was emphasised that all media should be granted fair and unbiased access to information. The meeting, attended by SAFA leadership and SANEF members, aimed to establish a level playing field for media engagement, stressing mutual respect for the independence and integrity of media organizations and their stakeholders.

All professional soccer clubs in the country are urged to adhere to the principles of fairness, respect, and impartiality in their interactions with the media. Such incidents detract from the collaborative efforts to foster an environment where the media can effectively perform their duties in informing the public.

SANEF calls for an immediate investigation into this incident and urges the Polokwane City to provide a formal explanation for the unjust expulsion of Munyai, ensuring that such actions are not repeated, and that press freedom and fair media access are upheld and respected.

For more information please contact:

  • Sbu Ngalwa – SANEF Chairperson (073) 404-1415
  • Nwabisa Makunga – SANEF Deputy Chairperson (082) 555-1972
  • Qaanitah Hunter – SANEF Secretary-General
  • Tshamano Makhadi – Treasurer-General (082) 223 0621
  • Makhudu Sefara – SANEF Media Freedom Chair (079) 177-2134
  • Katy Katopodis – SANEF Wellness and Safety Chair (082) 805-7022
  • Judy Sandison – SANEF KZN Convenor (082) 571-3334
  • Dr. Glenda Daniels – SANEF Gauteng Convenor (083) 229-9708
  • Rochelle De Kock – SANEF Eastern Cape Convenor (072) 969-8028
  • Asanda Ngoasheng – SANEF Western Cape Convenor (082) 610 9374
  • Reggy Moalusi – SANEF Executive Director (071) 682-3695

 

Media Freedom

SANEF Supports City Press Against Attacks

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09 October 2023

The South African National Editors’ Forum (SANEF) has noted with concern, the circulation of a purported “email” exchange claimed to be a conversation between a City Press journalist and a supposed handler.

The “email” surfaced following the publication of a story by the City Press in relation to the canned R5 billion deal, involving Thuja Capital Fund and the Unemployment Insurance Fund.

City Press has stated that the email is a fabrication and as SANEF, we believe them.

SANEF also welcomes the call by the City Press to anyone who claims to have evidence – proving wrongdoing on the part of any of their journalists – to come forward with such.

As SANEF we understand that there will be those who are not happy with the reporting, hence the smear campaign against reporter Mphumzi Zuzile and the City Press.

Journalists have long been subjected to smear campaigns, bullying and attempts to impugn their integrity.

SANEF stands for ethical and high standards in journalism. As an organisation, we would be the first to condemn any corrupt or unethical behaviour by any journalist.

Not only does the spread of fake news malign the integrity of the people targeted by such claims but also threatens their physical safety and that of their families.

In recent times we have seen a rise in deliberate disinformation and misinformation which is intended to not only mislead audiences but also meant to destabilise societies. The spread of fake news is much more destructive and not just an innocuous act of sharing content.

That’s why we call on members of the public to try and verify the information they receive – through reputable news organisations – before sharing it with others.

We hope that those with the necessary digital skills can investigate the matter and trace the origins of the purported email – including the time when it first surfaced on social media. We also call on law enforcement to treat the case with the seriousness it deserves.

 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 through fighting for media freedom, writing policy submissions, research, and education and training programmes. SANEF is not a union.

For more information please contact:

  • Sbu Ngalwa – SANEF Chairperson (073) 404-1415
  • Nwabisa Makunga – SANEF Deputy Chairperson (082) 555-1972
  • Qaanitah Hunter – SANEF Secretary-General
  • Tshamano Makhadi – Treasurer-General (082) 223 0621
  • Makhudu Sefara – SANEF Media Freedom Chair (079) 177-2134
  • Katy Katopodis – SANEF Wellness and Safety Chair (082) 805-7022
  • Judy Sandison – SANEF KZN Convenor (082) 571-3334
  • Dr. Glenda Daniels – SANEF Gauteng Convenor (083) 229-9708
  • Rochelle De Kock – SANEF Eastern Cape Convenor (072) 969-8028
  • Reggy Moalusi – SANEF Executive Director (071) 682-3695

 

Safety & Wellness

SANEF Denounces Incidents of Aggression and Intimidation Towards Journalists

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22 September 2023

The South African National Editors Forum (SANEF) is disturbed by the recent incidents of aggression and violence against journalists while they are doing their job.

The first incident unfolded on Tuesday, 19 September, where the security personnel at Standard Bank, manhandled Daily Maverick reporter Lerato Mutsila while she was on duty. Mutsila was covering the Extinction Rebellion protest at the bank’s Johannesburg headquarters.

The incident involved the unacceptable deletion of photos and videos from Ms. Mutsila’s phone and her violent removal from the bank’s premises by security personnel.

We note that a charge of assault and unlawful deprivation of property has been filed with the South African Police Service (SAPS) by the journalist in response to this unacceptable behaviour.

Ms. Mutsila says her attempts to identify herself as a member of the media were ignored. Instead, she was subjected to intimidation, and physical aggression, and forcibly removed from the building by at least four male security guards, acting upon the instruction of the bank’s group manager for Internal Protection Services.

SANEF has been in contact with the leadership of Standard Bank, the sponsors of the Standard Bank Sikuvile Journalism Awards, and will soon be meeting with them to iron out these issues. We are encouraged by the willingness of Standard Bank to resolve the matter.

In another incident, eNCA reporter Hloni Mtimkulu was physically manhandled and pushed out of a South African Post Office branch while she was interviewing government grant beneficiaries on their recent experience with the non-payment of grants.

The post office is a public institution and journalists have a right to do their jobs. The Post Office cannot dictate to beneficiaries who they should be talking to.

SANEF will also write to Minister of Communications Mondli Gungubele, to express its displeasure at the behaviour of the staff at the Post Office.

In Makhanda, our colleague Anna Majavu – who works for Grocotts Mail – was harassed while covering a case at the local Magistrates’ Court.

SANEF fully supports the Advisory Board for Grocott’s Mail in expressing its condemnation of the attack on Majavu – who encountered threats, harassment, and physical violence.

We reiterate the point that members of the public, who are unhappy with certain reporting have channels available to them to express their unhappiness. The Press Ombudsman is there to adjudicate any dispute between members of the public and a publication – free of charge just as the BCCSA adjudicates complaints relating to broadcasters.

We encourage communities to utilise these available platforms.

In conclusion, SANEF believes that the safety of our journalists and media freedom are fundamental democratic principles that all peace-loving South Africans should safeguard.

Any form of violence, intimidation, or threats against journalists is anathema to the South African constitution.

The behaviour of the staff at the Post Office demonstrated an attitude that has become all too familiar for most South Africans whenever they have to deal with public institutions.

That is an attitude of rudeness, disrespect, and even violence. Such behaviour is unacceptable and runs contrary to the principles of a free and democratic society. It is a serious infringement of press freedom, which is enshrined in the Constitution.

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 through fighting for media freedom, writing policy submissions, research, and education and training programmes. SANEF is not a union.

For more information please contact:

  • Sbu Ngalwa – SANEF Chairperson (073) 404-1415
  • Nwabisa Makunga – SANEF Deputy Chairperson (082) 555-1972
  • Qaanitah Hunter – SANEF Secretary-General
  • Tshamano Makhadi – Treasurer-General (082) 223 0621
  • Makhudu Sefara – SANEF Media Freedom Chair (079) 177-2134
  • Judy Sandison – SANEF KZN Convenor (082) 571-3334
  • Dr. Glenda Daniels – SANEF Gauteng Convenor (083) 229-9708
  • Rochelle De Kock – SANEF Eastern Cape Convenor (072) 969-8028
  • Reggy Moalusi – SANEF Executive Director (071) 682-3695

 

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