The National Press Club adds its voice to those who condemn the hostile and violent acts towards journalists in the past few days.
On Sunday SABC journalists were attacked in Vuwani, Limpopo by members of the public and yesterday journalists were attacked by farmers in Coligny, North-West.
Tanya de Vente-Bijker, chairperson of the National Press Club, says journalists should be allowed to report the news without any fear, intimidation or harassment.
“We urge the public to note that this is an infringement against press freedom which is enshrined in our constitution,” she said.
“It is the job of the media to uphold the fourth pillar of our democracy and report the news. We cannot sit back and watch our colleagues being abused.”
In light of these events, the press club will hold a discussion evening next week Tuesday (16/05) on the news media covering protests. Journalists who came under attack will form part of the panel, together with a media law advisor and other representatives.
Tanya de Vente Bijker
072 267 0751, tanyadevente@gmail.com
National Press Club secretariat
082 257 0305
martin@nationalpresscub.co.za
