Rights body calls for end to threats against journalists

THE South African Human Rights Commission has expressed grave concern about the targeting and intimidation of journalists by the group Black First Land First (BLF) and threats by the organisation to protest at the homes and places of worship of members of the media.

The commission (SAHRC) called on BLF to cease intimidating and harassing journalists immediately.

It also called on the group to respect and protect the media’s right to operate without fear or favour.

It noted that Section 16(1)(a) of the constitution guaranteed “the right to freedom of expression‚ which includes freedom of the press and other media”.

“A free press is a cornerstone of our constitutional democracy,” the commission said.

“Any attempt to threaten or intimidate the media is an attack on our democracy and a violation of our constitution.

“Section 15 of the constitution guarantees freedom of religion‚ belief and opinion. “Threats by BLF to protest at places of worship of members of the media is an infringement of this right.”

The South African National Editors’ Forum (Sanef) said on Sunday it planned to apply for an urgent interdict to stop BLF from harassing and intimidating journalists.

Sanef had given the group‚ which allegedly has links to the Guptas‚ until noon on Saturday to give assurances that it would stop harassing‚ threatening and assaulting journalists.

However‚ the movement declined.

This followed a protest by about 20 BLF members outside the Parkview home of Tiso Blackstar editor-atlarge Peter Bruce on Thursday, during which he was threatened over an article he had written about the Guptas.

BLF members also assaulted Business Day editor Tim Cohen outside the house.

This was followed by a statement by the organisation on Friday threatening a number of journalists, both black and white.