Independent Media’s editor-in-chief Adri Senekal de Wet.
Image: Armand Hough/Independent Newspapers
Independent Media has noted recent public commentary following the appointment of former The Star editor, Sifiso Mahlangu, as spokesperson for the Umkhonto WeSizwe (MK) Party.
Mahlangu resigned from his position as editor of The Star on 6 May 2026 to pursue opportunities outside Independent Media. At the time of his resignation, he did not disclose his intention to join a political organisation, nor did he indicate the nature of his future employment.
In light of the public discourse that has since emerged, Independent Media unequivocally reaffirms its long-standing editorial principles and policies. Independent Media maintains a strict and non-negotiable policy that no editor, journalist, or employee may hold office in, actively represent, or publicly advance the interests of any political party while employed within our editorial operations. Editorial independence and political neutrality remain fundamental to the credibility and integrity of our newsroom.
Where evidence has emerged in the past of employees occupying positions within political organisations while employed in editorial roles, decisive action has been taken in accordance with company policy. As one of South Africa’s leading newspaper publishers, with a proud heritage spanning 16 newspaper titles — some dating back nearly 180 years — Independent Media remains firmly committed to fair, balanced, independent and objective journalism in the public interest. We reject any suggestion that our editorial platforms serve the interests of any political party or political agenda.
*Senekal de Wet is Editor-in-Chief, Independent Media