The SA National Editors Forum says its urging journalists to exercise their Right to Freedom of Speech.
But, Sanef chairperson Mpumulelo Mkhabela, says this must be done within the confines of the Constitution and should not unnecessarily offend or cause hatred.
The Editors Forum was commenting after eNCA news anchor Andrew Barnes and the station apologised for his mocking of Basic Education Minister Angie Motshekga and the ANC barring reporter Carien du Plessis from its birthday celebrations in response to her social media post which was deemed offensive by the ruling party.
Mkhabela says Sanef accepts that the constitutional right to freedom of speech is subject to legitimate limitations that are clearly spelt out in the Constitution of South Africa.
"It is important for our fight for our freedom of speech remain credible. We should also respect the limitations that come with it, because if we do not do that it would like we are busy with a self serving campaign"
Mkhabela also urged the ANC to reconsider its ban on Du Plessis from covering the ANC's anniversary celebrations in Rustenburg this weekend.
"They should actually invite her to continue her work she was doing there, because we think the ANC has a past that prides itself for fighting for non-racialism. It should rise above this and provide leadership. Banning her from covering this event will not assist the ANC in it's agenda for a non racial society" he added
