Press Council hearings in Cape Town - speaking to empty chairs, again

We hope you're not getting bored with stories about the lack of public participation at Press Council hearings being held around the country. But we can't report on all the interesting points the public is making if they simply don't exist. At least in Cape Town on Thursday, 24 February 2011, the Muslim Judicial Council aired its views - but that was about it. Again.

By TO Molefe

25 Feb 2011

Press Council hearings in Cape Town - speaking to empty chairs, again

The latest leg of the Press Council public hearings began in Cape Town on Thursday to a room of at most eight people - a stark contrast to events such as the one held last year at the Book Lounge in the city. That event was convened by IDASA and others to discuss public sentiment around the media appeals tribunal and the Protection of Information Bill. It was standing-room only on that occasion and some people even listened from the pavement outside.

Thursday's hearings kicked off with presentations from Ralf Will of the Swift Photo Agency and Gill Moodie, a freelance reporter. The third presentation by the Muslim Judicial Council, represented by Nabeweya Malick, was the day's saving grace.

Continue reading the full article on www.FreeAfricanMedia.com, a Daily Maverick initiative.

Follow live tweets from the public hearings through the Bizcommunity #zamediafreedom Twitterfall or via Twitter Search (#presscouncilhearings OR #pcph or Press Council public hearings).

About the author

TO Molefe is a freelance writer. Follow him on Twitter at [[@TOMolefe]].