By Michael Andisile Mayalo
In an era where information spreads at lightning speed, journalistic integrity is more crucial than ever. Recently, Tim Cohen authored a piece about AYO Technology and its operations that is laden with inaccuracies.
His claims misrepresent the facts and jeopardise the livelihoods of those associated with AYO and, by extension, Dr Iqbal Survé.
Such behaviour raises serious questions about journalists' ethical responsibilities and their words' impact on businesses and communities.
One glaring inaccuracy in Cohen’s article is his assertion that AYO is an “unlisted” portfolio. This claim is unequivocally false. AYO is listed on the Johannesburg Stock Exchange (JSE), a detail that should be easily verifiable and foundational to any discussion about the company. The transparency of AYO's operations, a hallmark of publicly traded entities, starkly contrasts Cohen's murky portrayal. His deliberate misrepresentation of such a basic fact is a troubling example of agenda-driven journalism that has persisted since AYO's inception.
Cohen’s narrative seems to align with a broader trend in media where certain entities become targets of sustained campaigns to undermine their credibility. This orchestrated attack against AYO is not merely an isolated incident; it reflects a troubling pattern of misinformation that threatens the fabric of our economic landscape. When journalists prioritise sensationalism over accuracy, they mislead the public and risk destabilising businesses that provide jobs and services to countless individuals.
Cohen’s assertions have implications beyond mere inaccuracies. By painting AYO in a negative light, he contributes to a culture of distrust that can have far-reaching consequences. Potential investors may be dissuaded from supporting AYO, employees may face uncertainty, and the company's reputation can be irreparably damaged — all based on fabrications rather than facts. This cycle of misinformation creates a ripple effect, undermining the hard work of those dedicated to fostering growth and innovation within their industries.
It is imperative for journalists like Cohen and the platforms that publish their work to uphold a higher standard of accountability. Fact-checking should be non-negotiable, especially when the information presented can affect the lives of many. The media holds significant power in shaping public perception, and with that power comes an obligation to act responsibly. A failure to do so harms individuals and companies and erodes public trust in the media.
The motivations behind such attacks warrant examination. Why would someone like Cohen, who claims to be a journalist, engage in this level of distortion? The answer may lie in personal biases, financial incentives, or a desire for notoriety. Regardless of the motivations, the results are the same: lives and careers are put at risk for the sake of sensationalism.
The case of AYO is a cautionary tale about the potential dangers of unchecked journalistic practices. As members of society, we must advocate for accuracy and integrity in media reporting. Individuals and businesses should not be subjected to the whims of agenda-driven narratives that prioritize personal or corporate vendettas over the truth.
Holding individuals like Tim Cohen accountable for the information they disseminate is essential. Misinformation is not just a minor flaw but a dangerous weapon that can dismantle lives and livelihoods. We must demand better from our media and ensure that the voices of integrity and truth are amplified in the face of deceit. Only then can we protect the sanctity of our institutions and foster an environment where businesses like AYO can thrive without the threat of baseless attacks.
Mayalo is an independent writer, analyst, and commentator