eNCA has issued a statement apologising for showing a still photograph of state witness Michelle Burger, during the live broadcast of the trial this morning.
This morning during court testimony by state witness Michelle Burger, eNCA showed a still photo of Ms Burger which was sourced from the University of Pretoria’s website.
The trial was interrupted momentarily when it was pointed out that a photograph of the witness was shown on live TV against the wishes of the witness and against court order.
“No disrespect was intended. We did not understand the court order issued by Judge Mlambo to prevent this – we understood it only to apply to pictures taken of witnesses during the court proceedings” says Patrick Conroy, Group Head of News. “But, on reflection, this was a bad judgment call on our part and we accept that it did not accord with the spirit of the court order.”
eNCA will cooperate fully with any inquiry in this regard and deeply regrets the upset caused.
“Justice Masipa has now issued a further order that no photos be published of any witnesses who do not want to appear on camera, regardless of the source of those photos. We are grateful for the clarity provided by this further order and we will obviously adhere to it fully” says Patrick Conroy.
eNCA has been at the forefront of working with the Judiciary for improved access to the courts. We would never consciously undermine our own efforts over the past ten years. We should have been more cautious and sought clarity first. This has been an important lesson for everyone in terms of communication with the courts and the parties concerned.
Trial TV: The State vs Oscar Pistorius will run on OpenView HD Channel 119. Watch the 1PM, 7PM and 10PM eNews bulletins for updates.
