to pre-publication censorship such as to “require the discovery and inspection of documents” and also “access to any record or copies thereof from any office.” This would be the end of the long held ethical practice of protecting one’s sources and promoting the independence of the media. South Africa, touted as having one of the best constitutions in the world, also seems to be sliding backwards with the formulation and promulgation of laws that negate constitutionally guaranteed rights to freedom of expression. The Film and Publications Amendment Act passed in 2009 and the introduction of the Public Service Broadcasting Bill at the end of the same year, pose a sobering thought to advocates of freedom of expression. The Film and Publications Amendment Act is a typical example of good intentions implemented through a bad law as it allows pre-publication censorship in its efforts to address child pornography. Introduced in October 2009, the Public Service Broadcasting Bill will bring about many positive developments in the media sector, but it also poses a threat to the independence of the public broadcaster in view of the fact that it vests wide ranging powers with the Minister of Communications. Similarly, Namibia introduced the Namibian Communications Act dubbed the “spy bill” in the same mould of the much criticised Interception of Communication Bill of Zimbabwe in 2006. The Bill seeks to set up “interception centres” to intercept private emails as well as short messaging services and telephonic communication between citizens. While interception may be justified in this age of international terrorism, no individual or government should have the right to eavesdrop on conversation. It is a serious threat to freedom of expression. Any interception should be reasonably justifiable in a democracy, and ideally the courts should provide oversight to ensure that such interception is not abused to persecute and prosecute sworn enemies of the powers that be. 22 The hope and promise of media law reform brought about by the ushering in of the Government of National Unity (GNU) in Zimbabwe remained an illusion until the end of 2009. Save for allowing BBC and CNN back into the country, any hope for legislative reforms have been nothing more than a receding mirage as the year came to a close with obnoxious laws such as the Access to Information and Protection of Privacy Act (AIPPA), the Public Order and Security Act and Broadcasting Services Act (BSA) that still remain in the statute books. democratisation process. Once these standards are lowered, the media exposes itself to attacks which justify its gagging. All media regulatory bodies need to ensure that the media uphold these standards. Conclusion In conclusion, and based on the problems besetting the media sector in the region, there are two issues to focus upon: Firstly, it is critical for the media and for media practitioners to uphold the highest standards of ethical reporting, as well as to ensure truthfulness, balance, accuracy and fairness. This will ensure the integrity of the media as part of an important institution in the 23