The SOUTH African National Editors’ Forum (Sanef) said yesterday it was deeply concerned about the level of hostility and intimidation displayed towards journalists who covered the protests outside Luthuli House.
This comes after journalists covering the #OccupyLuthuliHouse protest on Monday were attacked and harassed by the members of Umkhonto weSizwe Military Veterans Association (MKMVA).
Marshals clad in MKMVA regalia pushed and hurled abuse at journalists and tried to confiscate their cameras.
Sanef, in a statement yesterday, said some journalists from various news organisations were intimidated and physically attacked by people claiming to be protecting Luthuli House and leaders of the ANC.
“Some journalists were pushed back and thereby prevented from getting close to ANC officials, including secretary-general Gwede Mantashe, who came out to address the crowd and journalists as well,” Sanef said.
Sanef called on ANC and MKMVA leaders to provide better training to their security staff and associates so that journalists could enjoy a free and safe environment to do their work in unhindered by marshals.
“Monday’s incidents come in the wake of a number of cases where, during the local government elections campaigns, journalists were either intimidated or directly assaulted while covering public events,” Sanef said.
In contrast, Sanef commended the behaviour of members of the SAPS and Joburg metro police department towards journalists, saying it had enabled them to do their work unhindered. – ANA