As delegates at the ANC Council debate policy in Durban, across South Africa and the world thousands of citizens are signing an urgent petition to uphold freedoms enshrined in the Constitution and promote an accountable and transparent government.
Avaaz's new online campaign joins a growing movement of prominent South African journalists, business executives, and
civic leaders who are condemning secrecy measures in the Protection of Information Bill and the proposed Media Appeals Tribunal.
"South Africa's democracy is at risk," comments Ricken Patel, executive director of Avaaz."These draconian proposals threaten press freedom, hamper crucial public scrutiny of government and security agencies, and block the media from exposing corruption and abuse of power."
This campaign was launched after members across South Africa sounded the alarm about both proposals.
The Protection of Information Bill would allow any national or local government department or agency to classify and make secret any information that they consider against the 'national interest' and would punish whistle blowers or journalists with up to 25 years in jail if they leak or publish information that was classified. The media tribunal would replace the press ombudsman with a state agency accountable only to the ruling party, tightly regulating reporting, and imposing penalties on journalists.
According to Avaaz, its Avaaz members have instigated "unprecedented mobilisations" in Italy, where they reversed a media gag law, and Brazil, where they pushed through a historic anti-corruption bill. This campaign is being launched with the nearly 60 000 South African Avaaz members.
"Citizens are coming together to stand up for their basic rights and oppose these disastrous proposals that will curb Constitutional liberties and protect power and privilege," adds Patel.
Avaaz has over 5.8 million members from every country on earth, and claims to be the largest global web movement in history. Avaaz's largest memberships are in Brazil and France, while Mexico and India are two of its fastest growing memberships this year.
Sign the petition
Add your voice and sign the petition at South Africa: democracy at risk. For more, go to www.avaaz.org.
