"The media provides a service that is essential for any democratic society.
"This is particularly important when the most fundamental aspect of a democracy, the elections, are round the corner.
"At such a time, the media plays an indispensable role in enabling citizens to stay well informed and make important choices.
" There can be no acceptable reason for attacking the media on frivolous unsubstantiated grounds.
"Intimidation and preventing the media from performing its duties amounts to interfering with the freedoms enshrined in and guaranteed by the Constitution.
"NBA appeals to political leaders from all parties and public figures not to level baseless charges against the media and keep the discourse civil and sane", says the press release.
