Media Freedom groups condemn attacks on migrants and intimidation of journalists

A coalition of South African and international media freedom organisations has condemned the growing violence against foreign nationals and the intimidation of journalists covering these incidents, warning that both trends pose a serious threat to democracy and public safety.

The organisations expressed concern over heightened tensions ahead of the self-imposed June 30 deadline announced by the group known as March and March and its allies, saying recent events have increased fears of further unrest.

Among the incidents highlighted was the killing of 29-year-old Malawian national Mishack Banda in Pietermaritzburg on June 19, which has intensified concerns about violence targeting migrants.

The coalition also reported a rise in threats against journalists documenting protests and attacks. Reporters have allegedly been assaulted, intimidated, ordered to delete footage, had attempts made to seize their equipment, and faced threats of violence while carrying out their work.

It further alleged that March and March used social media to identify individual journalists and encourage supporters to target them, resulting in harassment, intimidation and, in some cases, alleged incitement to commit criminal acts against media workers.

The organisations called on March and March to stop publicly identifying journalists and urged political parties and public representatives supporting the campaign to distance themselves from any rhetoric or actions that could encourage violence or hostility toward journalists and foreign nationals.

The coalition also appealed to law enforcement agencies to ensure the safety of all people affected by the unrest, protect journalists reporting on events, and investigate those responsible for threats, intimidation, assaults and incitement to violence.

It stressed that independent journalism is essential during periods of heightened tension, noting that reporters play a critical role in documenting events, exposing abuses and keeping the public informed. Attempts to intimidate or silence the media, the coalition warned, undermine accountability and create conditions where violence can continue unchecked.

Reaffirming constitutional principles, the organisations said everyone in South Africa is entitled to equal protection under the law regardless of nationality or immigration status. They emphasised that no grievance can justify violence, vigilantism or the targeting of vulnerable communities.

The statement was endorsed by several organisations, including Amnesty International South Africa, the Association of Independent Publishers, the Campaign for Free Expression, the Committee to Protect Journalists, the Media Diversity & Development Agency, Moxii Africa, the Press Council of South Africa and the South African National Editors' Forum.