Ais–reaǡ sociaŽ edia acc—sed of —e–ŠicaŽ re’or–i‰
LOBAMBA - The mainstream and social media are reportedly unethical and reporting irresponsibly without recourse.
As a result, the Ministry of Information, Communication and Technology (ICT), should ensure that the media reports accurately and responsibly. This was a submission made by Senator Mkhululi Dlamini, during the ministry’s portfolio committee debate, which took place in Senate yesterday. “I could talk extensively here but the nation can only hear me clearly when I am factually reported by the media. Let them be responsible in their reporting,” he said.
He added that despite the fact that in the past, media was said to have been reporting fairly, but this was not the case nowadays. Instead, he said the media reported willy-nilly. This, according to the senator, was irresponsible as every freedom should come with responsibility.
He submitted that there were reports which were untruthful about him without any recourse. Dlamini emphasised that responsibility should not be divorced from reporting fairly.
Meanwhile, Deputy Senate President Ndumiso Mdluli enquired about what laws the ministry had to retain the dignity of the nation and protection of people from defamation on social media.
Responding, ICT Minister Princess
Sikhanyiso, said the Computer and Cybercrime Bill did not deal with the damage the country was currently faced with. However, she mentioned that it addressed the criminal aspect.
The minister said the Harmful Digital Communications Bill would deal with the defamation of people, companies and the country. She said it was established and was in the process of getting to the AG’s Office, Cabinet and Parliament to be passed. The minister said this law would deal with the culprits on social media who were tarnishing the country’s image.
Ethics
On social and mainstream media not following journalism ethics, the minister said it was only perceived that social media was the only platform which did not adhere to them. However, she said mainstream media was seemingly following suit.
The minister said the codes of journalism were truthfulness, accuracy, accountability, transparency, independence, fairness and impartiality. “We note that there is no fairness and a lot of what is reported is lies and unfortunately, the evil is dominating, lies go first,” she said.
The minister added that the dignity of the country and its leadership was affected. She reiterated that journalists were expected to report lawfully and truthfully.