Deputy President Paul Mashatile says government recognises the crucial role of the media in keeping the public informed and strengthening the country’s democracy. He was speaking at the Parliamentary Press Gallery Association (PGA) event held in Cape Town.
Mashatile opened his address by reaffirming government’s commitment to transparency and cooperation with journalists.
“We hold your work in high regard. The global landscape emphasizes the vital role of media professionals in democracy and governance. As journalists, you must commit to truth and ethics, prioritising education and public dialogue over entertainment,” he said.
He encouraged members of the media to continue holding elected leaders accountable, urging them to uphold high standards of accuracy, independence, fairness and accountability.
The PGA gathering took place amid increasing calls for collaboration between government, the media and other sectors to counter misinformation circulating about South Africa. This follows persistent attempts by the US government to promote the false narrative of a so-called white genocide in the country.
Mashatile said unity between media and government was essential to safeguarding South Africa’s image. “The media’s pen and the government’s voice are two threads of the same tapestry, woven differently, yet united in shaping a better future for our nation,” he noted.
Concluding his address, the Deputy President highlighted several ongoing government initiatives aimed at improving service delivery, including the District Development Model and other key programmes focused on economic growth and job creation.
