Reporters Without Borders is a non-government organization that conducts political advocacy on issues relating to freedom of information and the press. In an article they published on 5 May 2019, they reported that while media freedom is guaranteed under the 1996 constitutional charter in South Africa, it is a fragile matter.

Apartheid-era legislation and the 2004 terrorism laws limit media coverage of government institutions when “national interest” is at stake.

“The essence of a free society is where journalists can do their work without fear of intimidation, harassment or other reprisals.”

According to the article, the State Security Agency spies on some journalists while tapping the phones of other reporters. Journalists are harassed and subjected to intimidation campaigns if they try to cover certain subjects involving the ruling party, government finances, land redistribution and corruption.

Information Control

The South African government posted a new draft of the Film and Publications Amendments Regulations Act in the Government Gazette on 3 July 2020, in-between Covid-19 lockdowns’ distraction, for public scrutiny. The new draft attempts to combat fake news spread via social media and other online publications.

This amendment aims to appoint the Film and Publications Board (FPB) to judge what is protected speech. The FPB is under the jurisdiction of the government. They will effectively control information going into and out of South Africa, translating into state censorship.

Personal Posts

While some exemptions are created for media members of the Press Council of South Africa or members of the Advertising Regulatory Board, the law as written gives the FPB jurisdiction over everybody in South Africa.

The FPB will regulate what individuals may post online. Comments and information published by individuals on their social media and public discussion forums will be included in this censorship, even if it is not monetized.

Opinions and Corrections

Should any of the information related to this little piece of writing be incorrect, please comment. I am curious to know if this is a legitimate concern?