Two media‑freedom organisations, Moxii Africa (formerly Media Monitoring Africa) and the Campaign for Free Expression, have intervened in a High Court case challenging automatic publication bans on reporting sexual‑offence and extortion cases. The organisations argue that the bans are unconstitutional, saying they restrict media freedom and undermine the autonomy of survivors who may wish to speak publicly.

South Africa’s Minister of Justice has withdrawn opposition to the challenge, leaving the Court to determine the matter. The organisations are seeking to have the relevant legal provisions declared invalid, paving the way for more open reporting while still protecting the rights and identities of complainants.

Lulu Gaboo spoke to Nicole Fritz, Executive Director of the Campaign for Free Expression.