Simon Ateba, Chief White House correspondent at Today News Africa has raised an alarm over what he termes as being targeted by the White House new press law.
“As you may be aware, the @JoeBiden @WhiteHouse and @PressSec office are revising the press hard pass rules, which several publications have reported specifically target me, an African journalist who has gained recognition across the United States for merely doing my job.” Ateba statement read.
According t Source who spoke exclusively to K47 digital news, Ateba, an African based journalist who has gained Massive support from some of the American is said to be, “specifically getting treated a certain way because he’s a non conformist doing his job.”
In his own confession, Ateba says the changes being made are set to take effect on July 31.
“Numerous publications have reported that the new rules seem to be aimed at Simon Ateba.” He affirmed.
However Ateba says he isn’t upset by the White House rules but the fact that the changes comes one day after Biden statement at World Press Freedom Day stating that journalism isn’t a crime.
“While I don’t feel upset that the entire White House rules are being amended due to my presence, it is ironic that these alterations come shortly after President Biden’s statement on World Press Freedom Day, declaring that journalism is not a crime. It seems that if you genuinely excel at your job, the @whca and the @WhiteHouse will join forces to target you.” He said.
Ateba further noted that, “This situation contributes to the lack of trust that the American public has in the media and politicians in Washington. I am uncertain about who will be president on July 31 or who will win the next election, but that shouldn’t be a factor.”
“At present, other journalists remain silent, believing that the rules only target me; however, these regulations may soon be used against them as well.
“When a new administration assumes power, they might forget that it was their predecessors who altered the rules, making it easier to target journalists and complicating the hard pass process.
“According to the new rules, news organizations must be independent. Yet, I am unaware of any truly independent individuals present in the White House press corps, and I know several who work for government-funded outlets. I am determined to continue doing my job and will not be easily deterred. May God help us all.”
