Phathiswa Magopeni Appointed Executive Director of Press Council SA
The Press Council of South Africa (PCSA) has announced the appointment of Phathiswa Magopeni as its new Executive Director, effective mid-February. She succeeds Latiefa Mobara, who steps down after more than a decade of service.
A respected journalist and advocate for media freedom, Magopeni expressed her gratitude for the opportunity, stating:
“I am deeply honoured to join this vital institution at a time when technological convergence is significantly impacting editorial integrity and media sustainability.”
In her new role, Magopeni will lead the PCSA’s national office, oversee its operations, and represent the organisation at key national, continental, and global platforms. She will maintain independence from the Complaints and Adjudication processes while driving the Council’s strategic direction.
Mobara praised her successor, saying:
“Phathiswa has the expertise, dedication, and enthusiasm to take the Press Council into the future. She is a strong, capable, and visionary leader, committed to media freedom.”
The PCSA, with over 400 media members subscribing to the Press Code, is also part of the Network of Independent Media Councils in Africa (NIMCA). Magopeni’s appointment is expected to strengthen the PCSA’s role in upholding media freedom and democracy in South Africa.