Natasha Phiri has been suspended following the Madlanga inquiry allegations.
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The South African Broadcasting Corporation (SABC) has taken decisive action by suspending journalist Natasha Phiri following allegations of unethical conduct revealed during the ongoing Madlanga Commission hearings.
The suspension was announced on Monday, 23 March 2026, amid serious claims that Phiri had compromised journalistic integrity by exchanging sensitive information in return for payment.
Testimonies presented at the commission indicated that Phiri provided contact details for prominent blogger Musa Khawula to Sergeant Fannie Nkosi, who in turn admitted to making a R500 payment on 6 November 2024.
Initially, Nkosi denied the financial exchange but later characterised it as a mere "token of appreciation," referenced in their communications as "I miss you." This phrase has raised questions about the nature of the relationship between the journalist and the police officer, further muddying the waters of ethical journalism.
Critical evidence was unearthed during cross-examination when Advocate Matthew Chaskalson laid bare WhatsApp communications revealing an alarming exchange between the two.
Phiri expressed disappointment in her chat with Nkosi, writing, “not even a thank you, sies,” prompting Nkosi to prompt her about expressing gratitude for the payments.
As the investigation progresses, the commission continues to scrutinise broader issues concerning police conduct and the leaking of sensitive information to outside parties.
The SABC has indicated it will pursue clarity and transparency throughout the investigation, as the outcome could significantly impact perceptions of journalism's ethical landscape amidst the ongoing Madlanga inquiry.