Is The Citizen Politically Biased? Ownership, Funding, and Editorial Policy
The Citizen Overview and Political Bias
Observers often characterize The Citizen as a tabloid-style publication focused on crime and lifestyle. Critics suggest it occasionally utilizes sensationalist headlines. While historically viewed as a pro-apartheid government mouthpiece, contemporary assessments generally describe its current editorial stance as centrist to populist, aimed at broad appeal within South African society.
| Standpoint | Assessment |
|---|---|
| Overall political leaning | Center |
| Estimated number of readers | 5,000,000 |
| Israel support | Neutral / Mainstream reporting |
| Use of loaded / emotional language | Medium |
| Target Audience | Mass market |
The Citizen History
Founded in 1976 by Louis Luyt, The Citizen initially gained notoriety for being secretly funded by the apartheid government during the 'Information Scandal.' Following this controversy, it was sold to Caxton & CTP Publishers. It has since evolved from a conservative broadsheet into a prominent national daily tabloid.
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Who owns The Citizen?
The Citizen is owned by Caxton & CTP Publishers and Printers Ltd, a major South African media group listed on the JSE. Funding is primarily derived from advertising revenue and circulation sales. The company is controlled by institutional shareholders and the Moolman family interests via corporate structures.