ANC Secretary-General Fikile Mbalula has sounded the alarm over what he describes as a growing trend of “captured journalism” in South Africa, accusing some journalists of abandoning impartiality and using their platforms to wage political battles.
Speaking during a media engagement in the wake of the explosive fallout surrounding Police Minister Senzo Mchunu and General Nhlanhla Mkhwanazi, Mbalula expressed deep concern over reporters who, in his view, are no longer merely covering the news but actively shaping political narratives. He argued that some journalists now operate as “political actors,” weaponizing media influence under the guise of objective reporting.
Without naming individuals or media houses, Mbalula hinted at an erosion of ethical standards in parts of the press, accusing certain players of colluding with political factions to drive agendas disguised as investigative journalism. “It’s no longer journalism,” he warned, “It’s political warfare dressed up as news.”
The ANC’s chief strategist emphasized the party’s respect for press freedom but urged for a clear boundary between journalistic integrity and political manipulation. He stressed that journalism should hold power to account, not become a tool for political disruption or misinformation.
Mbalula’s remarks come at a time of intense political scrutiny and growing public distrust in both government institutions and sections of the media. The collision between high-level policing scandals and media reporting has sharpened debates around transparency, accountability, and the fine line between journalism and activism.
