JOHANNESBURG - The Madlanga Commission has already heard explosive testimony on corruption allegations, with several implicated individuals now facing suspension.
Among them is SABC journalist Natasha Phiri, who has been suspended following claims that she accepted R500 from Sergeant Fannie Nkosi in exchange for the contact details of entertainment blogger Musa Khawula.
The case has reignited debate around ethics and accountability in journalism.
SANEF Chairperson Makhudu Sefara says while precautionary suspensions can be necessary to prevent interference in ongoing investigations, they must also be applied consistently and timeously.
READ: SABC reporter Natasha Phiri suspended after allegations at Madlanga Commission
He adds that reputational risk to media organisations is a key factor in such decisions.
Sefara also stressed that journalists should never sell access to sources.
He says contact details are often obtained through the nature of the job -- not bought or sold -- and exchanging money for such information is a clear violation of the press code.
He emphasised that SANEF takes a strong stance against such practices, warning that any journalist found guilty of exchanging money for information has no place in the newsroom.