Freedom of expression groups and opposition parties have condemned the South African state broadcaster's (SABC) decision to stop showing violent anti-government protests, claiming the move disregarded the right to dissent in the country.
The SABC said on Thursday it will stop showing violent anti-government protests flaring up around the country, in a bid to discourage others from carrying out similar forms of violence.
The public broadcaster also urged other media houses to stand in solidarity with their decision.
But Busi Mtabane, spokesperson for the Right to Know campaign, told Al Jazeera the move signaled a return to apartheid times when the national broadcaster was a mouthpiece for the ruling party.
"Filtering the news will leave people on the ground less informed and oblivious to the failures of the state," Mtabane said.
"Most of the time, protesting is the only tool people have to be heard. We have been raising our issues, but no one is listening. Being out on th