SANEF condemns threat to journalist in court papers
The South African National Editors’ Forum (SANEF) notes with concern allegations contained in court papers involving Major General Feroz Khan.
According to documents filed before the court, there are WhatsApp exchanges that allegedly contain threatening remarks directed at anti-crime activist and journalist Yusuf Abramjee, who has consistently spoken out against organised crime and the illicit tobacco trade. These allegations have attracted significant public attention and raise serious concerns about the safety of journalists and media practitioners.
SANEF is equally concerned by allegations contained in the same court papers that seek to link eNCA journalist Pule Letshwiti-Jones and Abramjee to prior knowledge of a law-enforcement operation. Both individuals have publicly and unequivocally denied these claims.
It is not SANEF’s role to determine the merits of allegations that are before the courts, nor to pronounce on matters that remain subject to legal processes. However, allegations or conduct that have the effect of intimidating journalists, undermining their credibility, or casting suspicion on them for carrying out their professional duties should concern all South Africans.
Journalists must be free to investigate, question and report on matters of public interest without fear of threats, harassment, intimidation or retaliation. Attempts to silence, discredit or vilify members of the media do not only affect individual journalists; they strike at the heart of media freedom and the public’s constitutional right to receive information.
South Africa’s Constitution guarantees freedom of expression, including freedom of the press and other media. These rights are fundamental pillars of our democracy and must be respected and protected at all times, particularly by those entrusted with positions of public authority and power.
SANEF stands in solidarity with journalists and media workers who face intimidation, threats or harassment because of their work. We call on the relevant authorities to ensure that all allegations are properly investigated and that the safety, independence and freedom of the media are protected without fear or favour.
ENDS
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, conducting research, and providing education and training programmes. SANEF is not a union.
For more information, please contact:
Tshamano Makhadi – Acting Chairperson (082) 223-062
Glenda Daniels – Secretary-General (083) 229-9708
Sbu Ngalwa – Treasurer-General (073) 404-1415
Slindile Khanyile – Media Freedom Chair (083) 471-0367
Katy Katopodis – Wellness and Safety Chair (082) 805-7022
Dianne Hawker – Gauteng Convenor (072) 016-5984
Judy Sandison – KZN Convenor (082) 571-3334
Jude Mathurine – Eastern Cape Convenor (083) 799-1701
Sisanda Nkoala – Western Cape Convenor (073) 138-5564
Reggy Moalusi – Executive Director (071) 682-3695
Twitter: @SAEditorsForum
Email: [email protected]
Website: www.SANEF.org.za
