Ngcuka: City Press says sorry

2003-12-01 07:58

Johannesburg - Acting City Press newspaper editor Wally Mbhele published a front page apology to National Director of Public Prosecutions Bulelani Ngcuka on Sunday, saying evidence before the Hefer Commission of Inquiry has left little doubt that there is no credible substance to reports suggesting that he was or could have been an apartheid spy.

"The reports were based on information from seemingly credible sources and documents that, at the time, appeared to support the allegations concerning Ngcuka.

"Since then - after a full, exhaustive and ongoing investigation by the Hefer Commission, and from information that has surfaced from reluctant witnesses - it has become apparent that the information given to City Press at the time of publication was devoid of truth, contrived and misleading," Mbhele added.

"In view of what has since transpired, as well as the admission to the Hefer Commission of 'reckless' editorial management of the material by former City Press editor Vusi Mona, City Press retracts the relevant news reports and editorial comment.

"We apologise unreservedly to Ngcuka and his office, the NDPP."

Mbhele said City Press is a proud newspaper with a rich history and tradition of acting in the public interest. It upholds universal journalistic ethics and norms, such as the protection of its sources. "This includes the sanctity of off-the-record briefings and the right to free speech."

City Press also believes that professional integrity is the cornerstone of a journalist's credibility, "and we adhere to that".

City Press, Mbhele explained, does not tolerate being "used" or compromised, as has been the case in this instance. "We recognise that the dignity and reputation of Ngcuka and his office have been harmed by the inaccuracy and untruthfulness of reports that he may have been a spy for the apartheid government. We admit that we erred and accordingly offer our sincere apologies to Ngcuka in his personal and professional capacity."

The apology made no mention of the other aspect of Hefer's remit, namely whether Ngcuka has abused his office to pursue personal vendettas.

The Hefer Commission resumes its public hearing into the affair in Bloemfontein on Monday.

Read the full City Press statement

- SAPA