Background
The uMkhonto weSizwe Party (MK Party) has pushed back against a statement from the South African National Editors’ Forum (SANEF). SANEF said it was “deeply concerned” after reports claimed that Sifiso Mahlangu, the former editor of The Star, was involved with the MK Party from its very start while holding a top journalism job.
What SANEF Said
- SANEF stressed that, as a matter of principle, editors and journalists should not take part in political activities.
- The forum expressed worry that Mahlangu’s alleged early ties to the MK Party could damage trust in journalism.
MK Party’s Response
The MK Party rejected SANEF’s claims, saying they are false and reckless. Key points from their reply:
Timing of Mahlangu’s Membership
- Mahlangu officially joined the MK Party only after being appointed national spokesperson by party president Jacob Zuma on Monday, May 18, 2026.
- Before that appointment, he had no role in forming or running the party.
Criticism of SANEF’s Approach
- The party called SANEF’s statement a “serious lapse in judgment” by an NGO that presents itself as a guardian of journalism ethics.
- It argued that SANEF is not a regulator but still issues public comments that carry weight without checking facts or balancing views.
Questions About Consistency
- The MK Party noted that SANEF did not raise similar concerns when Songezo Zibi, former Business Day editor, entered politics as leader of Rise Mzansi.
- It said SANEF failed to give Mahlangu a chance to respond before publishing its allegations.
Focus on SANEF’s Leadership
- The party pointed to recent news about Makhudu Sefara, who was placed on special leave as editor of the Sunday Times and stepped down as SANEF chairperson after being linked to alleged misuse of National Lotteries Commission funds.
- It suggested SANEF should first address its own internal issues before criticizing others.
Call for Fair Pay
The MK Party urged SANEF to focus on real problems in the media industry, especially pay gaps that affect black journalists.
- It said black reporters often earn less than their white colleagues for similar work.
- The party asked SANEF to advocate for fairer salaries and better working conditions for all journalists.
Conclusion
Despite the disagreement, the MK Party said it remains committed to media freedom and democratic accountability.
- It called on SANEF to retract its statements and apply the same ethical standards to itself that it expects from journalists and editors.
- The party hopes the debate will lead to stronger, more transparent media practices in South Africa.
