Last updated: 25 August 2026
This policy explains how Mzansi Political Safari distinguishes commercial material from independent journalism.
Separation from editorial
Advertising, sponsorship or commercial relationships must not determine the conclusions, wording or news judgement of independent editorial coverage. The newsroom retains responsibility for editorial decisions.
Labelling
Paid, sponsored, partner or advertiser-supplied material should be labelled clearly enough for a reasonable reader to understand that it is commercial rather than independent editorial content. Labels may include “Advertisement”, “Sponsored”, “Paid Partnership” or another clear equivalent.
Political advertising
Any political advertising accepted by the publication must comply with applicable South African law and platform or industry requirements. Political advertisements must be distinguishable from news reporting and must not be presented in a way that implies editorial endorsement.
Sponsored editorial-style content
Where a commercial partner funds content that resembles an article, the relationship should be disclosed prominently. Sponsored content is not permitted to make deceptive claims or conceal the identity of the sponsor where disclosure is required.
Advertiser influence
An advertiser may request changes to its own advertisement or sponsored deliverable but may not require favourable treatment in unrelated news coverage. The existence or withdrawal of advertising should not be used as a reason to suppress legitimate reporting.
Affiliate links and commercial referrals
If affiliate links or commission-generating referrals are introduced, they should be disclosed in the relevant content or in a clearly accessible site-wide notice. Editorial recommendations should not be fabricated solely to generate commission.
Refusal or removal
Mzansi Political Safari may refuse or remove advertising that is unlawful, deceptive, malicious, technically harmful, inconsistent with site standards or likely to confuse readers about the distinction between advertising and journalism.
Contact
editorial@politicalsafari.co.za