Latest press statement: SANEF notes Meeting between the Sunday Times and the Hawks - 11 October 2018
Read more: sanef.org.za/sanef-notes-me…
Read more: sanef.org.za/sanef-notes-me…
SANEF has noted that a meeting has been held between Sunday Times Editor, Bongani Siqoko and the Hawks. The Hawks were at the offices of the Sunday Times in Johannesburg on Tuesday, and the meeting was held there at the editor's request.
As SANEF we have previously raised concern when state institutions unjustifiably turn on journalists in an attempt to intimidate them into silence, Siqoko has assured us that the meeting was cordial.
Siqoko has also told SANEF that there is no investigation as regards him or the newspaper. It appears it is too early to give details on the exact nature of the Hawks investigation.
However to our understanding, the investigation is also not linked to the stories the Sunday Times wrote in recent years, especially in connection with the now discredited SARS Rogue Unit Reports.
SANEF is acutely aware of the terrible damage those stories have done to our industry and our democracy and also notes the repeated apologies from the Sunday Times over the years.
SANEF recognise that journalists enjoy many freedoms in South Africa, we take this opportunity to remind all members of the media that these freedoms come with a responsibility to report fairly, accurately and ethically at all times.
