New | Beijing bans ‘sensitive topics’ during Mandela funeral coverage
Government orders Chinese media not to highlight the late leader’s democracy comments, the Dalai Lama or ties between Taiwan and South Africa
China’s propaganda authorities have issued a series of orders, warning national and local media to toe the line ahead of the funeral of former South African president Nelson Mandela.
"All media and websites must be prudent in selecting the materials and [must] report appropriately,” read the orders from the ministry, which were confirmed by two local media sources.
The propaganda department issues orders to newspapers, magazines and websites on a routine basis. It requires the news media to step back on politically sensitive topics and highlight the contents which authorities favour.
More than 70 national leaders, from US President Barack Obama to Iran’s Hassan Rowhani were flying to South Africa to pay tribute to one of the world’s great peacemakers at the Soccer City Stadium in Soweto.
Chinese vice-president Li Yuanchao, as a special representative of President Xi Jinping, is attending the funeral. (Watch the livestream of Mandela's memorial service here.)
The ministry ordered local media not to highlight Mandela’s remarks on human rights and democracy issues.
