Adv Sesi Baloyi, a commissioner on the Madlanga Commission of Inquiry, has urged the South African media to critically evaluate claims before reporting them. Speaking at the South African National Editors’ Forum’s fundraising gala dinner, Baloyi emphasized the importance of fairness and balance in journalism. She noted that biased reporting can erode public trust in the media. Baloyi commended the media for its coverage of the Madlanga commission but expressed concerns about the industry's understanding of its role in society.
Baloyi highlighted the challenges facing the media industry, including declining investment in newsrooms, which has led to significant job losses and smaller editorial teams. This reality inevitably affects the quality and depth of content produced for readers. She also spoke about media coverage of anti-migration protests, arguing that some reporting reflected a preconceived position rather than a fair presentation of competing views. According to Baloyi, it is often easy to identify reporting that inflames tensions rather than presenting both sides of an issue.
The Press Code of South Africa requires journalists and media organisations to report truthfully, accurately, and fairly. It calls for reporting that is balanced and conducted without intentional or negligent departure from the facts. The code also places an obligation on the media not to publish hate speech or content that advocates hatred based on race, ethnicity, gender, or religion. Baloyi's comments align with these principles, emphasizing the need for media to defend the rights of those whose views they disagree with.
In recent months, many news organisations have provided extensive platforms for activists and protest movements advocating stricter immigration controls. While the anger around the immigration crisis is justifiable, some claims have helped mobilize support without being backed by facts. Assertions that foreign nationals are responsible for crime and filth in CBDs, that they vote in elections, steal jobs meant for locals, and other claims cannot be published unchecked.
The media has historically played an important role in defending human rights and taking principled positions when fundamental freedoms are under threat. During apartheid, many journalists and publications chose to expose injustice and stand with the oppressed. The pursuit of fairness does not require journalists to abandon moral clarity; it requires them to remain faithful to the facts and challenge misinformation.
Baloyi's comments have sparked reflection among media practitioners about their role in society and the importance of fact-based reporting. As a consumer, she has often observed that commentary and story reporting reflect a bias of the storyteller or commentator. She argued that the media must not use its power to silence voices with which they disagree and that they must defend the rights of those whose views they strenuously disagree with.
The South African media is urged to take Baloyi's comments seriously and re-evaluate its approach to reporting. By verifying facts and presenting competing views, the media can maintain its credibility and ensure that the public is equipped with the truth needed to make informed decisions. This approach will help to promote a healthy and informed public discourse, which is essential for a functioning democracy.
Key points
- Adv Sesi Baloyi calls on media to fairly present competing views and verify facts in reporting.
- Biased reporting can erode public trust in the media.
- The media has a crucial role in defending human rights and promoting fact-based reporting.
