Welcome to Season 2 of “Under The Microscope: Defending Democracy Edition” with Riaad Moosa. In this episode which addresses disinformation and the weaponisation of it, Riaad humorously declares his fake entry into politics with the fictional “South African Moosa Party,” (SA Moosa party, get it?) emphasising how easily disinformation and fake news can be spread.
He delves into the history of propaganda, tracing its roots from Hitler’s “Big Lie” to modern-day examples like Putin’s invasion of Ukraine (Putin claims there’s antisemitic goings on in Ukraine and the government is corrupt) and of course the divisive xenophobic rhetoric in South Africa that is fuelling anger and resentment amongst disenfranchised South Africans.
Riaad highlights how fake news and disinformation fuel hate and division, referencing the KZN riots and biased media channels like (the now defunct) ANN7 and publications under Iqbal Survé. He stresses the importance of news literacy, critical thinking, and supporting independent journalism to combat the spread of false information.
All facts presented in this episode (and indeed throughout the season) are evidence-based, in the public domain and fact checked by credible and independent journalism and media and organisations like Africa Check. The final message is “Think before you share”.