As the Press Council is ready to submit a document to its Public Advocate, photographs of Lieutenant-General Nhlanhla Mkhwanazi chatting with Executive Director Phathiswa Tshangana have gone viral.
These photos were captured in Unisa, at the Press Club’s Newsmaker of the Year Awards. During the occasion, they show Mkhwanazi interacting with Tshangana, drawing attention to the dynamic between high-ranking police officers and officials from South Africa’s media regulatory bodies.
Thabo Leshilo is a seasoned journalist and the Public Advocate for the Press Council; the photos were shared as part of a larger conversation about a submission to him. The material presented was lacking in terms of both the objective and specific accusations that were to be included in the proposed submission.
Promoting ethical journalism and resolving complaints about print and internet media are two of the roles played by the Press Council. The goal of its public advocacy structures is to encourage transparency and participation in the media sector from the general people.
Because of his alleged participation in policing-related crimes, Mkhwanazi has garnered a great deal of public attention. When he makes an appearance at a media-related event, it opens the floor for a public conversation about how the police, journalists, and accountability structures in the media all work together.
But the photos don’t prove a thing about the people in them being bad actors. Their attendance at an awards ceremony together does not constitute proof of any unlawful connection, influence, or agreement.
The submission is still in its early stages, therefore more information is needed to clarify the issues, the people involved, and the anticipated reaction from the Public Advocate of the Press Council.
The photos’ widespread distribution further emphasises the need for openness and accountability in reporting on the relationship between government officials and news outlets. It is important to evaluate claims with the help of credible sources and the replies of those involved.
As the situation progresses, the Press Council and the people listed may provide more clarity on the images and the submission.