By Staff Reporter
On 19 October, the government joined the South African media industry in commemorating
45th anniversary of Black Wednesday, also marked as National Press Freedom Day. The day
serves as a reminder of how far the South African media has come and allows them to reflect
on media freedom.
On this day in 1977, the apartheid government banned the independent media by silencing
them from reporting the brutal acts of that reigning regime. Journalists, including the then
editor of The World, Percy Qoboza were detained.
The Minister in the Presidency, Mondli Gungubele, said: “A free media is an integral part of
our democracy and government is committed to freedom of press. We value regular
interactions with media formations such as SANEF, Press Club and Press Gallery. We will
continue to strengthen our relations and cement the importance of media independence.
Freedom of press must be respected because any threat to it will undermine our democracy.”
“The Constitution entrenches the right to freedom of expression, including media freedom,
because it recognises that the media plays a crucial role in ensuring that all South Africans
and government are held accountable. The government also urges media to continue
upholding ethical reporting standards,” cautioned the Minister.
“Government also recognises the media as partners in protecting democracy and promoting
human rights. We embrace any platform that allows us to strengthen relationships with the
media while also allowing us to speak about the work of government and to share our
successes and challenges,” added Gungubele.
The Minister in the Presidency acknowledged the excellent work carried out by the media,
especially during the COVID-19 pandemic and, “the brave journalists who lost their lives
while bringing reliable information to our homes.”
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