By Staff Reporter
The South Africa government remains committed to upholding media freedom as guaranteed in Section 16 of the Constitution.
It commemorated World Press Freedom Day on Saturday, which is used to reaffirm the importance of a free and independent media in strengthening democracy.
It is also an opportunity to celebrate the fundamental principles of press freedom, assess the state of press freedom around the world, defend the media from attacks on its independence, and pay tribute to journalists who have lost their lives or faced threats in the line of duty.
“South Africa remains committed to upholding media freedom as guaranteed in Section 16 of the Constitution. Our democracy has been enriched by a vibrant and diverse media landscape that plays a vital role in promoting transparency, advancing public discourse, and holding those in power to account,” the government said in a statement.
“… government also recognises the challenges faced by journalists globally, including censorship, harassment and violence. Government condemns all forms of intimidation and attacks against the media and calls for greater protection of journalists everywhere”
It emphasised that press freedom was not solely a media concern, but a vital democratic principle that served and benefited all members of society.
The country must work together to create an environment where journalists can work freely and safely, and where ethical, fact-based journalism continues to thrive.
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