DA Calls for urgent action to safeguard media freedom

26 July 2023

The DA calls on the Minister of International Relations and Cooperation, Naledi Pandor, to urgently outline the steps her department is taking to safeguard media freedom and ensure that South African journalists are not subject to arbitrary censorship by Russian authorities.

In light of the recent revocation of Daily Maverick foreign policy specialist Peter Fabricius' media accreditation for the Russia-Africa Summit in St. Petersburg by Russian authorities, it is imperative that government takes decisive action to protect press freedom and the flow of accurate, unbiased reporting.

As the Minister responsible for International Relations, Minister Pandor has a critical role to play in safeguarding the interests of South African citizens, including journalists who are on assignment abroad. We urge her to provide a transparent and comprehensive account of what actions her department is taking to address this concerning situation and to prevent any similar incidents in the future.

Furthermore, we call on the Minister to engage in diplomatic efforts with the Russian authorities to ensure that South African journalists can carry out their work without fear of censorship or reprisals. It is crucial that the South African government upholds the Country's commitment to press freedom and actively advocates for the rights of journalists, not just within its own borders but also on the international stage.

We seek reassurance from Minister Pandor that there will be a thorough investigation into the circumstances surrounding the revocation of Mr. Fabricius' accreditation.

The DA stands firm in its support for media freedom and the vital role that journalists play in holding those in power accountable.

Issued by Emma Louise Powell, DA Shadow Minister of International Relations and Cooperation, 26 July 2023