SANEF Outraged by Behaviour of ANC Marshalls and MKMVA at Protest on Monday

The South African National Editors’ Forum (SANEF) is deeply concerned about the level of hostility and intimidation displayed towards journalists who covered the protests outside Luthuli House on Monday.
Journalists from various news organisations were intimidated and physically attacked by people claiming to protect Luthuli House and leaders of the African National Congress (ANC). Marshals clad in uMkhonto weSizwe Military Veterans’ Association (MKMVA) regalia pushed and hurled abuse at journalists. There were also attempts to confiscate journalists’ cameras.

Some journalists were pushed back and thereby prevented from getting close to ANC officials, including Secretary-General Gwede Mantashe, who came out to address the crowd and journalists as well. SANEF is outraged and calls on ANC and MKMVA leaders to provide better training to their security staff and associates so that journalists can enjoy a free and safe environment to do their work unhindered by vulgar marshals.

In contrast, the behavior of SAPS and JMPD members towards journalists was exemplary and SANEF commends them for enabling journalists to do their work. Monday’s incidents come in the wake of a number of cases where, during the local government elections campaigns, journalists were either intimidated or directly assaulted while covering public events.

For Inquiries
Sam Mkokeli – (082) 084-2051
SANEF Media freedom Sub-committee Chair

Socials

Twitter: @SAEditorsForum

Email: [email protected]

Website: SANEF