Section 16 (1) (a) of the Constitution of South Africa, guarantees “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.  Any attempt to threaten or intimidate the media is an attack on our democracy and is a violation of our Constitution.  

Further, section 15 of the Constitution guarantees freedom of religion, belief and opinion.  As such, threats by BFLF to protest at places of worship of members of the media, is an infringement of this right.

The Commission therefore calls on the BFLF group to immediately cease intimidating and harassing journalists and further calls on this group, and on all who reside within the Republic, to respect and protect the media’s right to operate without fear or favour.  

Ends

Issued by the South African Human Rights Commission

Gail Smith – Spokesperson Tel: 0609883792 This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.
Gushwell Brooks – Communications Co-ordinator Tel: 082 645 8573 This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.