Journalists complain of heavy-handed security at ANC conference
Journalists covering the African National Congress (ANC) elective conference in Nasrec, south of Johannesburg, have accused security personnel of heavy-handed treatment.
The complaints come after Bloomberg journalist and South African National Editors Forum (Sanef) media freedom Subcommittee chairperson Sam Mkokeli’s accreditation tag was confiscated.
Mkokeli tweeted he had been ejected.
I suspect I am being arrested
— Sam Mkokeli (@msmkokeli) December 19, 2017
My only crime was to complain about the ANC's unprofessional conduct when they made us wait for almost an hour for a Ramaphosa briefing.
— Sam Mkokeli (@msmkokeli) December 19, 2017
Mkokeli complained that the ANC was unprofessional, while journalists were waiting for about half an hour for an impromptu briefing by newly-elected ANC president Cyril Ramaphosa.
In a video taken by another journalist Shoeshoe Qhu, a security personnel is seen shoving and pushing Mkokeli.
Security Personnel assaulting and pushing around @SAEditorsForum’s @msmkokeli at the #ANCConference2017 #kayanews @KayaNews pic.twitter.com/u7H0wkuOlG
— Shoeshoe Qhu 📻 (@ShoeshoeQhu) December 19, 2017
More journalists have come forward stating they have been shoved, pushed and treated unfairly by security personnel.
Sanef chairperson Mahlatse Gallens held a meeting with the ANC leadership and security cluster following the incident.
She says Mkokeli’s accreditation will be given back to him.