EFF refuses to meet Sanef
The South African National Editors' Forum (Sanef) says the Economic Freedom Fighters (EFF) has
declined a request for a meeting to discuss the intimidation
of journalists.
SANEF requested a meeting with EFF leader Julius Malema following a call to EFF supporters to "deal decisively" with journalists, whose names he mentioned from the stage while addressing a crowd outside the commission of inquiry into state capture.
Sanef chairperson Mahlatse Mahlas, says the political party will only sit down with them after the 2019 elections.
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"Just to quote (EFF secretary-general Godrich) Gardee: ‘The schedule is very tight and fully booked with pre-arranged meetings and activities up until the elections date’. We are quite disappointed this was the response of the EFF because we believe that the meeting should happen before the elections.”
She says several journalists have experienced threats and intimidation following Malema's comments.
"One of the journalists singled out by Malema was physically accosted while shopping and others faced abuse on social media.
"While we acknowledge Malema's right to criticise the media, we remain gravely concerned about the threats and intimidation of individual journalists - often women - who report critically on the EFF, and the chilling effect this may have in newsrooms."
Sanef says it will continue to seek legal advice on ways to protect journalists from bullying and intimidation by politicians.