Press Ethics Controversy: IOL Criticized for Not Granting Right of Reply in News Feud

In a revealing development within South African media, the Deputy Press Ombud has found that Independent Online (IOL), a publication owned by Independent Media, violated the press code by failing to offer a right of reply to News24 and its journalists in their reporting feud. This decision underscores ongoing concerns about fair journalism practices and the media's responsibility to provide balanced reporting.

The heart of the controversy centers on IOL's handling of a storified press statement issued by Sekunjalo, where they recounted criticisms from a prior News24 report without providing News24 and the implicated reporters—Nick Wilson, Jan Cronje, and Jeff Wicks—an opportunity to respond. This action was considered particularly grievous given the nature of the claims, which included serious accusations against News24's journalistic integrity and diligence.

Sekunjalo, the majority shareholder in Independent Media, which owns IOL, had issued the statement as a response to a critical News24 report entitled “Inside Iqbal Survé’s glitchy propaganda machine: Goebbels, AI and slippery writers”. This report outlined allegations against Sekunjalo’s chairman, Dr. Iqbal Survé, accusing him of using a network of compliant journalists and PR professionals to enhance his image and discredit opposing journalists.

The Deputy Press Ombud highlighted that the essential element missing from IOL’s article was the right of reply, a cornerstone of fair journalism enshrined in Clause 1.8 of the Press Code. This clause mandates that the subject of critical reportage be given a reasonable amount of time to respond to the contentions laid out against them, an obligation that IOL failed to meet.

In their defense, IOL argued that their publication aimed to balance the views expressed in News24’s original article by airing Sekunjalo's side of the story. However, this approach was criticized by both the complainants and the Deputy Press Ombud for lacking genuine effort in presenting a balanced perspective and for not directly engaging with News24 concerning the new allegations made by Sekunjalo.

The ruling by the Deputy Press Ombud emphasizes not only the breach of the press code but also the lack of ethical judgment shown by IOL in handling the response dynamics. The recommendation set forth by the IOL’s oversight body included issuing an apology and updating the article to reflect the right of reply for News24 and its journalists, which are to be overseen by the Deputy Press Ombud before publication.

This case brings to light the critical role of ethical standards in maintaining the credibility and integrity of news media entities. As the landscape of media and journalism continues to evolve, the adherence to these principles remains a cornerstone for trustworthy journalism. With the expulsion of Independent Media from the Press Council, the unfolding outcomes from this ruling are being watched closely by industry observers and the general public alike.