Staff Reporter
Bloemfontein – Hostility towards the media within the Department of Human Settlements appears to be rearing its ugly head once again, through unprintable insults directed at journalists.
The latest incident reinforces what many observers have described as a culture of intimidation, hostility and a reluctance to account when uncomfortable questions are asked about the department’s affairs.
WhatsApp exchanges seen by this publication involving departmental spokespersons: Mondli Mvambi, Millicent Setai and Zimasa Mbewu paint a picture of selective engagement with the media. Praise is welcomed, but scrutiny appears to trigger outrage.
When this publication reports positively on service delivery initiatives, the response from officials is non-existent.
A case in point is the department’s Christmas housing handover programme, which was covered extensively by this publication. Despite the positive publicity, there was little acknowledgement or engagement from departmental officials.
The tone changed dramatically, however, when this publication reported on the employment of an illegal foreign national within the department. Mbewu, in particular, appeared visibly displeased by the coverage.
Mvambi reacted similarly when this publication carried a story involving MEC Mahlatsi.
Rather than addressing the issues raised, the focus shifted to the publication itself.
The silence was equally noticeable when this publication profiled Dr. Thejane for his role in helping save school pupils from fox poisoning. Despite the overwhelmingly positive nature of the story, there was no response from departmental communicators.
The same pattern was evident with Setai. While she is often quick to engage when coverage is perceived as negative, she remained silent when this publication covered her uncle’s funeral mass.
Taken together, these incidents suggest a deliberate pattern rather than mere coincidence.
Now, a leaked audio recording purportedly featuring Tshepiso Motsima, Chief Director: Cooperate Services at the Department of Human Settlements, provides a rare glimpse into how some senior officials view members of the media.
The recording relates to media enquiries submitted by Sipho Mabena of The Citizen regarding reports surrounding the employment of an illegal foreign national within the department.
Mabena’s apparent offence was simply asking questions.
Greetings Khonzaphi
I am following up on information that former Setsoto municipality mayor, Nthateng Maoke, is now employed by the Free State Department of Human Settlements. I was hoping to verify this information and also, when was she appointed, was her post advertised and her current position.
Regards
Sipho Mabena
Journalist
The Citizen. PS: also dropped you mail on …@fscogta.gov.za’
In the audio, derogatory remarks are made about journalists, raising serious concerns about the department’s attitude towards accountability and transparency.
The level of impunity is staggering.
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