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The South African Chamber of Commerce and Industry (SACCI) welcomes the statement made by Deputy President Kgalema Motlanthe on Saturday. SACCI agrees that it is possible for the media to improve its self-regulatory mechanisms and to implement it in a manner that will ensure the continued freedom of the press. Media freedom is a cornerstone of democracy which must be protected. The statement of the Deputy President throws out a challenge to the media that must be taken seriously.

SACCI is ready to contribute to the debate in the interests of the South African economy. It calls on the media to respond positively to the opportunity it has been given to avoid state interference in its activities.