Media 24 agrees to suspend newspaper closures

Media 24 has agreed to suspend the planned closure of its newspapers City Press, Beeld, Rapport and Daily Sun, as well as the dismissal of journalists, editors and other media staff.

This decision is the result of concerted efforts by The witness And Caxton CTP Limitedwhich highlighted the crucial role of newspapers in maintaining our democratic society.

“We are pleased that our campaign has successfully stopped the immediate threat to titles and jobs,” said Riquadeu Jacobs, Chairman of The witness.

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The closure of Media 24’s newspapers follows the company’s decision to sell newspaper distribution business On-The-Dot to Novus. witness And Caxton to point out that the merger required regulatory approval.

“Contrary to Media 24’s claim that it had exhausted all options to save the newspapers and jobs, viable alternatives were offered,” said Jacobs.

Media 24 has now agreed to suspend the planned closures and layoffs until the Competition Commission has assessed and decided on the merits of the merger.

While The witness And Caxton Although the companies object to the merger on competition law and public interest grounds, the immediate suspension represents a significant relief for many.

“We will provide our opinion on competition and important public interest considerations when the matter is examined by the Competition Commission,” Jacobs added.

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The witness And Caxton have taken a firm stand against the closures and layoffs and emphasised the central role of newspapers in our democratic structure.

“We are committed to ensuring that newspapers are given the respect they deserve in our democracy because of the enormous role they play in holding power to account. We have called on all sections of society to reflect on the significance of these threats to the press and the country,” Jacobs said.