Hon Speaker, the Media Council is doing its own review, something that had not been done until this issue was raised. We don't know what the conclusion will be. We have raised this issue very seriously after almost a decade since this media freedom has been exercised in our country.
We are concerned because a lot of pain has been caused by how the media has been reporting on certain individuals in the country. Whether the review is taking place or not, we have made this one: our own Media Appeals Tribunal. The review that we are talking about has not even been completed in order for us to see the type of product, which could maybe try to persuade one or two; it is still in the process.
For other people who have got views on this matter, it is their democratic right to have views on any matter. Those individuals that you've just quoted, do have views on any matter. Therefore, the ANC calls upon everybody, society or organisations to have the right to do so.
The problem that we have is that people do not bring any solutions to the problems; they are merely criticising. We want people who have views to say, "This is what we think the solution is", because you can't say that there is no problem. In fact, since the debate even the media itself has admitted that the South African media has stepped over the line that has been drawn by our Constitution. Other media said so - they have done a study.
The media, which monitors Africa, agrees by giving examples of what it has done. That is the media, not the ANC; much as it has a different view on whether the tribunal should be there or not, it says "the media in South Africa", and it gives reasons why there are problems.
Therefore, you should debate the matter in Parliament. This Parliament would be informed by these views coming from other people, and that will inform the debate.
Finally, we will agree on what we think needs to be done in the country. So, debate the matter and don't suppress the ANC when it exercises its freedom to express its views and make suggestions. Debate the matter. [Applause.]