SANEF supports City Press against attacks
9 October 2023
The South African National Editors’ Forum (SANEF) has noted with concern, the circulation of a purported “email” exchange claimed to be a conversation between a City Press journalist and a supposed handler.
The “email” surfaced following the publication of a story by the City Press in relation to the canned R5 billion deal, involving Thuja Capital Fund and the Unemployment Insurance Fund.
City Press has stated that the email is a fabrication and as SANEF, we believe them.
SANEF also welcomes the call by the City Press to anyone who claims to have evidence – proving wrongdoing on the part of any of their journalists – to come forward with such.
As SANEF we understand that there will be those who are not happy with the reporting, hence the smear campaign against reporter Mphumzi Zuzile and the City Press.
Journalists have long been subjected to smear campaigns, bullying and attempts to impugn their integrity.
SANEF stands for ethical and high standards in journalism. As an organisation we would be the first to condemn any corrupt or unethical behaviour by any journalist.
Not only does the spread of fake news malign the integrity of the people targeted by such claims but also threatens their physical safety and that of their families.
In recent times we have seen a rise in deliberate disinformation and misinformation which is intended to not only mislead audiences but also meant to destabilise societies. The spread of fake news is much more destructive and not just an innocuous act of sharing content.
That’s why we call on members of the public to try and verify the information they receive – through reputable news organisations – before sharing it with others.
We hope that those with the necessary digital skills can investigate the matter and trace the origins of the purported email – including the time when it first surfaced on social media. We also call on law enforcement to treat the case with the seriousness it deserves.
Issued by SANEF, 10 October 2023
