‘Don’t Sell Your Sources’: Sanef Warns Journalists After SABC’s Natasha Phiri Suspension

The South African National Editors Forum (SANEF) has warned journalists against selling information and sources for monetary gain.

The warning follows the suspension of SABC senior political journalist Natasha Phiri after revelations at the Madlanga Commission of Inquiry that she allegedly accepted money in exchange for information.

The Revelations

On Monday, police sergeant Fannie Nkosi admitted he paid Phiri R500 after she sent him the contact details of entertainment blogger Musa Khawula.

Nkosi initially denied paying Phiri.

Sanef’s Response

Sanef said it has taken note of the controversy surrounding Phiri, who has now been suspended by the SABC pending a further investigation.

“We expect the public broadcaster to keep the broader public informed of the outcome of its investigation. While the suspension can be considered a labour issue, the public nature of the allegations has firmly thrust the matter into the area of public interest.”

“It should also be noted that Phiri has not been afforded any opportunity to respond at the Commission, and we hope such an opportunity will arise for her and other journalists who have been mentioned.”

The Commission’s Undertaking

During the opening days of the inquiry, the commission made an undertaking that all implicated people would be given an opportunity to respond.

Sanef said it hopes the commission will make good on this undertaking.

Call for Vigilance

Sanef encouraged anyone with credible information about corrupt journalists to report this to:

• The Editor in Chief of the publication they work for

• The police

“Sanef reminds journalists to take precautions in their conduct, especially when it comes to politically exposed people.”

Elections Warning

“Later this year, South Africans will go to the polls in local government elections, and with such an important news event, we all need to be vigilant as journalists in our work and those we work with in our coverage.”

Sanef also warned journalists to be on high alert for any attempts to pay them for favourable coverage by any politician or political party.

The Bottom Line

A journalist suspended. An admission of payment. A commission yet to hear her side.

Sanef’s message is clear: don’t sell your sources. And be vigilant especially as elections approach.