07/09/2026
Newsday Editor’s Reported Abduction Raises Safety Concerns
Limpho Petlane
Maseru
Freedom of expression and the ability of journalists to carry out their work safely are important aspects of journalism in a democratic society. These principles have come into focus following the reported abduction and assault of Newsday editor Kananelo Boloetse, with Information, Communications, Science, Technology and Innovation Minister Nthati Moorosi visiting the newspaper’s offices on Monday to express support for its management and staff.
Boloetse was reportedly abducted and assaulted before being left near the Phuthiatsana River. The circumstances surrounding the incident remain subject to investigation.
Moorosi’s visit provided an opportunity to engage with the Newsday team and discuss the impact of the incident on the newsroom. Newsday Managing Director Lerato Matheka briefed the minister on the circumstances surrounding Boloetse’s ordeal and the concerns arising from the incident.
The reported attack has raised concerns about the safety of journalists and the conditions under which media practitioners carry out their professional duties. For news organisations, the safety of staff is important to maintaining normal operations and allowing journalists to continue their work on matters of public interest.
Moorosi pledged government support in efforts to address media victimisation and promote a working environment in which journalists can perform their responsibilities without fear or intimidation.
She encouraged journalists to remain committed to their profession despite the incident, while continuing to uphold professional and ethical standards. She also stressed the importance of responsible and accurate reporting, particularly when covering sensitive
matters.
The minister reaffirmed the importance of the media in informing the public and contributing to democratic processes. She urged journalists not to allow the incident to undermine their commitment to their work and encouraged them to continue serving the
public with professionalism.
The engagement also provided an opportunity for Newsday management and staff to share their concerns directly with the ministry following the reported attack. The incident has affected the newsroom as colleagues deal with the circumstances surrounding Boloetse’s ordeal and his recovery.
Moorosi’s visit comes at a time when the safety of journalists remains an important consideration for media organisations. Ensuring that journalists can perform their duties without intimidation is necessary for newsrooms to continue gathering and publishing
information on matters of public interest.
The circumstances surrounding the reported abduction and assault remain under investigation, while Boloetse continues to recover from the ordeal.
