Browsing by Author "Maputi, Sibongile Sydney"
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- ItemAn exploration into the role conceptions of investigative journalists at News24, amaBhungane, and Scorpio(Stellenbosch : Stellenbosch University, 2021-03) Maputi, Sibongile Sydney; Jordaan, Marenet; Stellenbosch University. Faculty of Arts and Social Sciences. Dept. of Journalism.ENGLISH ABSTRACT: The normative role of investigative journalists has evolved from merely informing the public to actually getting involved in societal struggles through exposing and reporting on corruption and abuse of power. In South Africa, this evolution is supported by a strong investigative media culture and a conducive legislative framework – at least since the dawn of democracy. However, in the past few years there has arguably been a change in how local journalists are treated by people in positions of power, as well as the public. Open hostility, as well as physical and cyberattacks on investigative journalists pose serious threats to press freedom and have the potential to negatively impact the role journalists play in society. It is therefore worthwhile to describe how investigative journalists view their role in society amidst these types of challenges. The aim of this study is to explore how investigative journalists at News24, amaBhungane, and Scorpio view their role in democratic South Africa. Semi-structured interviews were conducted with 13 journalists at these investigative units in order to address the research problem. Journalists were asked how they understood their roles and what they thought their social responsibility was. The interview data was analysed within the framework of normative role conceptualisation and social responsibility theory. The central theoretical departure point of this study is that investigative journalists describe their role according to specific normative guidelines and expectations. Through thematic analysis of the interview data, seven themes were developed which captured, amongst other things, how the journalists describe their roles, how they view the relationship between public interest and social responsibility, what threats they face and what skills are needed for the future of investigative journalism. In the final instance, this study concludes that investigative journalists at News24, amaBhungane, and Scorpio understand their role in democratic South Africa to be shining the light on state secrets and abuses of power. Despite the challenges they face, these investigative journalists still regard public interest as a key determinant of whether or not to investigate. By holding the powerful to account, advocating for social justice and exposing corruption these journalists understand that their work benefit taxpayers, and the most vulnerable members of society, and ultimately contribute to the welfare of society.