The Ministry of State Security has welcomed the court decision to dismiss an application to prohibit the use of signal jamming devices in Parliament by the State Security Agency.

The South African National Editors Forum (Sanef), Media24, Primedia, Right to Know Campaign and Open Democracy Advice Centre challenged a clause in Parliament’s broadcasting policy.

The Cape Town High Court this week found that while the media had an important role to play, the limitation in Parliament’s broadcast policy did not amount to a prohibition.

The case had been heard by a full bench of three judges.

“The court’s decision reaffirms the agency’s legal position that in terms of its mandate and legislative provisions, it can own and deploy various devices to counter certain threats in major national and international events, activities and occasions to ensure maximum security,” said Minister David Mahlobo.

Minister Mahlobo reiterated that the agency will continue to work within the constitutional and legal framework and that human rights and national security are not mutually exclusive but mutually reinforcing.

The Minister is expected to seek a meeting with the South African National Editors Forum.