The United States' R&B music maestro, R Kelly, has decided to stop trying to censor journalists, despite his experience of being "quoted selectively or misquoted completely".

"We apologise for any misunderstanding this may have inadvertently caused," it said in a statement.

This follows reports that Kelly had forced journalists in a press conference to sign contracts preventing them from publishing any material that he had not approved.

The contract went as far as threatening journalists in breach of the contract with a R800 000 defamation law suit.

In its explanation, Kelly's management said that its censoring local media was a measure to stop media from misquoting the super star.

"Over the years we have found that the media have quoted R Kelly selectively or even misquoted him completely to create sensationalist publicity about him."

This it said had led to some incorrect and damaging comments being attributed to him that simply did not emanate from him.

Earlier the SA National editor's forum slammed Kelly for what it deemed as attempts by him to censor local media.

While it welcomed Kelly's visit to the country, the forum said that if he had concerns about the country's journalism, he should raise them openly so that they can be addressed.

"We hope that his welcome visit will not be marred by controversy around the violation of media freedom," Sanef said.

Sapa

RSS
Digg
de.li.cious
facebook
Week in Quotes Pimped car The ANC has no interest in porn; the JSC is impartial; and the SABC wants public thanks...
The iafrica.com debate Money going down the drain Should politicians be entitled to excessive luxury? Ebrahim Moolla takes on Rebekah Kendal...
Quirky & Bizarre Bulldog Do you need a laugh? Then check out our offbeat stories from around the world...