SA Parliament is demanding that the Sunday World issue an immediate retraction and a public apology to both the Speaker Nosiviwe Mapisa-Nqakula and the Joemat-Pettersson family “for the distress caused by their false reporting” on Sunday.
The publication reported that ANC members were subjected to a humiliating reception by the family of the late MP Tina Joemat-Pettersson, who died last week under mysterious circumstances.
The Sunday World said that according to its sources close to the developments, Joemat-Pettersson’s children have adopted a hostile stance against the ANC and its leaders, accusing the governing party of contributing to their mother’s death.
“It is believed the children suspect foul play as she was about to turn state witness after being interviewed by the police in connection with the much-publicised WhatsApp text messages she allegedly sent to suspended Public Protector’s Busisiwe Mkhwebane’s husband in which she was extorting money on behalf of ANC MPs Pemmy Majodina and Richard Dyantyi,” the publication wrote.
In its response, Parliament strongly condemned the “gross misrepresentations” by the newspaper.
Contrary to Sunday World’s claims, Parliament says the Speaker was warmly welcomed by the Joemat-Pettersson family during her visit to pay her last respects.
“She [National Assembly Speaker] spent three hours with the bereaved family, offering condolences, sharing memories, and providing comfort during this challenging time.
“The sensational, insensitive, and hurtful reporting we have witnessed today is deeply disheartening. The actions of the Sunday World are a clear violation to the fundamental principles of accuracy, fairness, and respect for the privacy and emotional well-being of the family in times of grief,” Parliament said.
Parliament also warned that it reserves its right to officially file a complaint against “this brazen dissemination of false information.”
