By Teboho Moloi
BLOEMFONTEIN – The South African National Editors’ Forum has urged media houses to sharpen their understanding of local government and uphold strict ethical standards ahead of the 2026 local government elections.
Addressing journalists during a national election training session, SANEF data and AI strategist Athandiwe Saba said newsrooms must resist political pressure to provide blanket coverage to all parties.
“It is not mandatory to give every party coverage. Journalists must exercise editorial judgment without fear or favour,” she said.
The workshop, held in partnership with the Independent Electoral Commission and the South African Local Government Association, forms part of nationwide preparations for the polls.
Saba delivered a blunt critique of current reporting trends, warning that journalists are losing sight of the fundamentals of local governance.
“As journalists, it seems we are failing to understand the basics of local government elections,” she said.
She condemned what SANEF describes as “irrelevant election coverage” — reporting that centres on personalities rather than the real impact of governance on communities.
Too much attention, she said, is placed on mayors and political parties, while critical issues such as municipal finances, infrastructure delivery and human settlements are sidelined.
“Reporting should not end with who wins. The real story lies in how municipalities function and whether they deliver on their mandates,” Saba said.
She called on journalists to closely track council committees responsible for key portfolios, stressing that these structures directly shape service delivery on the ground.
SANEF also warned against the spread of misinformation during the election period, cautioning that smear campaigns and unverified claims often intensify.
Journalists were reminded to verify information rigorously and to uphold the principle of the right of reply for anyone implicated.
“Elections are fertile ground for misinformation. Accuracy, fairness and accountability must remain non-negotiable,” Saba said.
