We have noted with concern how coverage of the president, in particular, has become trapped in two story lines.

When the president considers all aspects of matters placed before him to take an informed decision, the media accuses him of being indecisive. When he acts, he is accused of taking decisions vindictively, informed by the ANC elective conference that is scheduled to take place in Mangaung next year. This stereotyping and pigeonholing does not constitute fairness and objectivity that is expected of the media and misinforms the public.

The president takes decisions independently, informed by objective facts placed before him. The pigeonholing of the president that has become prevalent misleads the public and kills critical thinking in the media and public space.

The media's responsibility is to inform the public on what the decision is about and all aspects of it. They are then free to comment, but must not give an impression that their opinions are facts. Opinions need to be marked clearly as such so the public can make their own judgments based on the information provided.

We humbly urge the media and analysts to exercise their minds openly and widely, and analyse each action or decision on its own merits. In this way, the South African public will be better informed about the actions, decisions and policies of government.