Independent Media vs Press Council
By Karabo Marifi
Johannesburg- Independent Media has taken a firm stand against the Press Council of South Africa (PCSA) following what it describes as a “deliberate withdrawal” from the council rather than an expulsion. On 23 October 2024, the Press Council issued a statement declaring Independent Media’s expulsion. However, Independent Media has publicly disputed this, asserting that its departure was motivated by a commitment to “media freedom and independence” and rejecting claims of expulsion as “misleading.”
Senekal de Wet, Editor-in-Chief of Independent Media, voiced strong criticism, claiming that the council is influenced by “vested interests” that align with major media conglomerates rather than the public interest. She stated that Independent Media’s decision to withdraw was a protective measure to preserve its editorial independence, as the council’s numerous legal complaints and pressure allegedly served as a tactic to stifle the publication’s commitment to fearless journalism.
Allegations of Bias and Lack of Transparency
Independent Media’s withdrawal statement highlights what it views as an apparent double standard within the Press Council. While the Council requires media houses to adhere strictly to ethical guidelines, it has, according to de Wet, failed to provide transparency about its own funding sources. “Whose interests are really being served?” She questioned, pointing to the numerous legal complaints the Council has filed against Independent Media.
Among the complaints was a high-profile case involving News24 journalist Karyn Maughan, whom Sunday Independent was accused of defaming in a March article comparing her to a Nazi propagandist. The Press Ombud ruled in favour of Maughan, stating that the article crossed into abuse rather than protected commentary. Independent Media objected to the ruling and argued that the Council’s sanction was “disproportionate,” allegedly infringing on Sunday Independent’s editorial independence .
Establishing an Internal Ombud Office
In response to the rift, Independent Media has announced the establishment of its own Group Ombud Office, a proactive step aimed at upholding ethical journalism and accountability within its own ranks. The office will be led by Aneez Salie, former Editor-in-Chief, and attorney Ighsaan Higgins. According to de Wet, this move reflects Independent Media’s commitment to journalistic integrity, free from external interference.
“This is a sad day for media freedom in South Africa,” de Wet said, underscoring that Independent Media will continue to champion free speech while maintaining its journalistic standards through internal regulation.
Press Council’s Defence and Rebuttal
In a memorandum, the Press Council responded to Independent Media’s accusations, describing the criticisms as unfounded and outlining its commitment to fair adjudication. The Council stated that all complaints against Independent Media followed the Press Code and denied any influence from external interests. Judge Bernard Ngoepe, Chair of the Council’s Appeals Panel, previously rejected Independent Media’s appeal in the Maughan case, citing that the article lacked substantiation and failed to meet standards for protected comment.
The Press Council also pointed to another longstanding grievance involving journalist Gill Moodie, whose reputation was allegedly undermined by Independent Media in 2016. After rejoining the Press Council earlier this year, Independent Media was asked to issue an apology for past publications critical of Moodie but declined, suggesting the matter was closed.
Independent Media’s allegations of bias were dismissed by the Council, which asserted that its processes are impartial and uphold the values of the South African Press Code.
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