WESTERN CAPE HIGH COURT DISMISSES PRIMEDIA CASE AGAINST SPEAKER

28 May 2015

The Office of the ANC Chief Whip welcomes the judgment of the Western Cape High Court this morning dismissing Primedia’s case against the Speaker of the National Assembly regarding Parliament’s broadcasting policy. Primedia had argued that certain sections of Parliament’s policy were unconstitutional as parliamentary cameras in the House could not capture certain happenings which the media deemed ‘newsworthy’.

We agree with Parliament’s contention that not only is the broadcasting policy firmly in line with the constitution, but it is also totally reasonable and in place to protect the dignity of the legislature.

As the maker of laws that give practical expression to our constitutional democracy, Parliament respects the rights of the media enshrined in the Constitution’s bill of rights and thus may never unduly hinder media’s operations within its precincts. Parliament has a duty and responsibility to uphold the dignity and decorum of the institution and should never be seen to condone chaotic and unruly conduct of few MPs.

As the ANC were regret that this matter had to go court as we believe it could have been resolved amicably between the two parties.

Statement issued by the Office of the ANC Chief Whip, May 28 2015