Monday 21 November 2011

GOOD BYE FREEDOM OF SPEECH

We are counted down to one of the saddest times since the new dispensation in this country. A secrecy bill is about to be passed into law. That means journalists may never expose corruption by high profile people and politicians. Had this bill become law at the beginning of the year, South Africans would not have found out that former minister Sicelo Shiceka, abused public funds to pay for luxury hotels stays, limousine services and first-class air travel tickets while flying for personal reasons. This has led to widespread calls from opposition parties for his dismissal. We wouldn't know about Bheki Cele's alleged involvement in the multi-million rand lease scandal.

The government is displaying its arrogance by not listening to the need for transparency. Millions remain in poverty, while a few elite steal from public funds. And we are expected to sit quietly in our corner and turn a blind eye to this tragedy. It is sick

I will join many media practitioners, NGOs and other lobby groups in protest against the Secrecy Bill.


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