AMCF CONDEMNS THE MANHANDLING OF A KAYAFM JOURNALIST AT THE CONSTITUTIONAL COURT
Africa Media and Communication Forum
By African Media and Communicators Forum (AMCF)
The African Media and Communicators Forum (AMCF) strongly condemns the manhandling of a journalist from Kaya FM at the Constitutional Court earlier today, where the journalist was present in the execution of their professional duty to cover a news story.
The incident, captured on video footage, is deeply disturbing and raises serious concerns about the treatment of journalists and the safety of media practitioners while carrying out their work.
Journalists play a critical role in a democratic society by keeping the public informed, holding those in positions of power accountable, and ensuring that matters of public interest receive the necessary scrutiny.
The AMCF emphasises that no journalist should be subjected to intimidation, physical aggression or harassment for doing their job.
The media must be allowed to report freely and independently without fear of violence, obstruction or victimisation.
It is particularly concerning that this incident occurred at the Constitutional Court, an institution at the heart of South Africa’s constitutional democracy and the protection of fundamental rights, including freedom of expression and freedom of the press.
Any conduct that undermines the safety and dignity of journalists in such a setting is unacceptable and must be taken seriously.
The video footage of the incident provides an important basis for establishing the circumstances surrounding what transpired.
The AMCF calls for a thorough and impartial investigation into the incident, accountability for those found responsible, and appropriate measures to ensure that journalists are protected when covering matters of public interest.
The Forum further urges all individuals, security personnel and institutions responsible for maintaining order at public venues to respect the role of the media and ensure that journalists can perform their duties without undue interference.
Any legitimate security concerns must be addressed professionally and lawfully, without resorting to force or intimidation.
The AMCF stands in solidarity with the affected Kaya FM journalist and the broader media fraternity.
An attack on a journalist is not merely an attack on an individual media practitioner; it is an affront to media freedom, the public’s right to know, and the democratic principles enshrined in our Constitution.
Media freedom must be protected in practice, not merely upheld in principle. Journalists must be allowed to do their work safely, independently and without fear.