The South African government on Thursday denied allegations that President Cyril Ramaphosa has attempted to “apply political pressure and using banks to silence the media.”
Government Communication and Information System director-general Phumla Williams said President Cyril Ramaphosa had no reason to silence the media which he greatly respected and has closely worked with since independence in 1994.
Williams described as “malicious” allegations by Independent Media Group head Iqbal Surve that Ramaphosa and Public Enterprises Minister Pravin Gordhan had applied political pressure and were using the banks to silence the media.
“The Independent Group’s allegations are devoid of truth, and seek to bring the president and the minister into disrepute,” Williams said.
She said South Africa’s constitution entrenched the right to freedom of expression, including media freedom, which has been an integral part of democracy since 1994.
“Since 1994 government has been resolute in the belief that an independent and free media are vital partners in strengthening any democracy,” Williams said.
NM/jn/APA