SANEF calls on journalists to be ethical, trustworthy and always do their work with integrity

24 November 2021

The South African National Editors’ Forum (SANEF), a constituent of the Press Council, yet again reminds journalists of this code as it has sadly, and regrettably, learnt of the election of Edwin Ntshidi as a PR councillor of Action SA in the City of Johannesburg.

On independence and matters relating to conflict of interest, the Press Code clearly states that: “The media shall not allow commercial, political, personal or other non-professional considerations to influence reporting, and avoid conflicts of interest as well as practices that could lead readers to doubt the media’s independence and professionalism.”

Ntshidi, a freelance reporter, covered the recently concluded municipal elections for EWN. While we are happy that he is no longer a reporter, and his association with EWN ceased, we are equally concerned at his conduct and why he agreed to be an Action SA candidate, while he was reporting on politics, including the very same party he now represents. It must be noted Ntshidi never disclosed to EWN his political ambitions.

SANEF takes ethical journalism, fair and balanced reporting, and the non-association of journalists with political parties seriously, hence our disappointment at this latest development.

Issued by Dzudzie Faith Netshisaulu, Administrator, South African National Editors’ Forum, 24 November 2021