October 19, is a significant day in South Africa. The country marks Media Freedom Day and as we reflect, we remember how apartheid justice minister Jimmy Kruger banned three newspapers- the World, the Weekend World and the Voice- in 1977.
As much as South Africans dread the dark days of the previous oppressive regime, similarly the media cannot be shunned into obscurity either.
Instead, we must shine the light on what is happening in society. From exposing corruption, to reporting on crime but also highlighting the exceptionally good news that is present in our communities.
Who else will tell stories of the marginalised? Who else will get to rural, impoverished communities and hold authorities to account? Who else will expose fraud and corruption among the wealthy?
Sure there is the rise of citizen journalism but there is a need for verified, factual information and stories that have multiple sources in order to present a holistic perspective on a particular matter.
Freedom of the media is enshrined in our progressive constitution which states that: “Everyone has the right to freedom of expression which includes freedom of the press and other media”.
President Cyril Ramaphosa described media freedom as a pillar of a democratic society. “Our journalists continue to be the standard-bearers for accountability and the empowerment of citizens. Media investigations have shone a spotlight on corruption, the abuse of vulnerable people, the targeting of whistle-blowers, and all manner of wrongdoing within the state, the private sector, academia and other sectors.”
Oh the irony. Mr President, let us enlighten you, this is not the case out in the field. Journalists constantly face the onslaught of harassment and intimidation and in some instances imprisonment all because they are following their calling- a moral obligation to seek the truth.
During apartheid the media was controlled by the government and censorship laws inhibited free speech. We must guard against other forms of censorship today. Where so-called independent organisations try to control key messaging, where government officials and business associates and opposing media houses themselves are blatant about agenda setting. This is a hotbed for misinformation and disinformation to thrive.
Journalists have the democratic right to report news freely, fairly and without undue influence.
Back off. We will not be silenced.
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