Former Member of Parliament and anti-apartheid stalwart, Professor Kader Asmal has called on South African journalists to play more of an 'activist' role.

Asmal addressed the Cape Town Press Club on Monday.

He urged the country's media houses not to be deterred by government's attempts to interfere with media freedom.

Asmal pulled no punches when he slammed the state for creating laws that may curb the freedom of the press.

"Last year, the Film and Publications Act was watered down, but it is a mistake," says Asmal.

However, Asmal also warned that all was not well in the country’s newsrooms.

"I want quality to improve; I want more senior journalists to be writing about politics," says Asmal.

He believes qualified and well-read reporters will help keep government accountable.

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