Press freedom violations and the need for more informed journalism

2024-12-08

The NMT Media Foundation (formerly the Namibia Media Trust) has made considerable efforts to gather and review all available information regarding the suspension of Anna Nicodemus, Political Affairs and Investigations Editor at the National Broadcasting Corporation (NBC), on Friday, December 6, 2024.

This includes getting comment from Ms. Nicodemus and the NBC, reviewing the YouTube clip of the Newzroom Africa interview and analysing local reports related to the elections.

We therefore wish to state the following:

1. We can confirm that Ms. Nicodemus’ suspension is connected to comments she made in her capacity as NBC Political Affairs and Investigations Editor, during an “external engagement on Newzroom Africa” in December 2024 (see link). Of particular concern in this interview are several statements made by Ms. Nicodemus regarding the health of the incoming Head of State, Netumbo Nandi-Ndaitwah, including claims that Nandi-Ndaitwah allegedly collapsed during the campaign leading up to the November 27 elections. It has since emerged that these claims were unfounded and that images of the alleged incidents circulating on social media were proven to be AI-generated disinformation (see also).

2. The NBC has suspended Ms. Nicodemus with full pay, pending an investigation. The corporation has stated that this is not a disciplinary action and has guaranteed that she will be informed of the investigation’s outcome and whether disciplinary action will be pursued in line with NBC’s internal procedures.

In light of the proliferation of disinformation, the NMT Media Foundation urges journalists to exercise professionalism and refrain from inadvertently spreading false or misleading information — issues that have already marred the 2024 general elections from all sides.

We also appeal to all Namibian journalists to adhere to the Code of Ethics and Conduct for Namibian Print, Broadcast, and Online Media, ensuring the public has access to accurate, verified information that empowers informed decision-making.

We acknowledge that the NBC has indicated it will undertake a thorough investigation of this matter. We urge that this process be conducted transparently and expeditiously, and we will closely monitor its progress.

Notwithstanding this, we are aware of forces working to discredit dissenting voices. Such actions pose a significant threat to our democracy and the media freedom that we hold so dear.

The NMT Media Foundation reaffirms that a free, independent, and professional media is the cornerstone of a thriving democracy. Journalists must be empowered to report without fear of reprisal, and editorial independence must be safeguarded to promote quality journalism that holds power accountable. Any deviation from these principles undermines media independence and casts doubt on the integrity of institutions tasked with maintaining a robust media and information ecosystem.

We therefore call on all stakeholders, including the NBC and other state-owned media entities, to prioritise media independence and uphold the principles of transparency and accountability. Only through these efforts can we ensure that Namibians continue to benefit from credible journalism that serves the public interest.

Enquiries:
Zoe Titus
Executive Director
Email: info@nmt.africa
www.nmt.africa