Chris Whitfield addresses the media, on media freedom
Lusanda Bill
20 AUGUST 2010
Chris Whitfield who is the Independent Newspapers Editor-in-Chief has made his views clear on the Protection of Information Bill.
He was discussing the controversial bill and Media Appeals Tribunal at the Cape Town Press Club on Thursday.
He stated the bill is an invitation for officials to abuse legislation and keep information away from the public.
Whitfield said “if government presses ahead with its plan, it would signal the end of investigative journalism in the country. The bill would give the state far-reaching powers to classify information in the name of national security, which would result in publications simply becoming the mouthpiece of the ruling party”.
Government has stated that the bill is not meant to muzzle the media and have said they will meet with the South African Editors Forum to make them understand the bill.
Meanwhile Bush Radio programme intergrator Adrian Louw released an open letter to listeners and supporters outlining the stations view on media freedom and freedom of expression.
20 AUGUST 2010
Chris Whitfield who is the Independent Newspapers Editor-in-Chief has made his views clear on the Protection of Information Bill.
He was discussing the controversial bill and Media Appeals Tribunal at the Cape Town Press Club on Thursday.
He stated the bill is an invitation for officials to abuse legislation and keep information away from the public.
Whitfield said “if government presses ahead with its plan, it would signal the end of investigative journalism in the country. The bill would give the state far-reaching powers to classify information in the name of national security, which would result in publications simply becoming the mouthpiece of the ruling party”.
Government has stated that the bill is not meant to muzzle the media and have said they will meet with the South African Editors Forum to make them understand the bill.
Meanwhile Bush Radio programme intergrator Adrian Louw released an open letter to listeners and supporters outlining the stations view on media freedom and freedom of expression.
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