The SAJBD calls for the reinstatement of Dr Bridget Farham
as editor of the SAMJ
The South African Jewish Board of Deputies (SAJBD) calls for the immediate reinstatement of Dr Bridget Farham as editor of the South African Medical Journal, following her ousting by the South African Medical Association (SAMA).
Dr Farham’s forced resignation comes after a torrent of abuse meted out from pro-Palestine SAMA members, and after facing criticism from SAMA itself. This was in response to a sober editorial where she stated that there was “no moral equivalence” between Hamas’ invasion of Israel on October 7th, and Israel’s retaliation.
The unprofessional and unfair treatment of Dr Farham by SAMA is an unacceptable form of bullying that attempts to cancel anyone who dares to express a different view in spite of academic rigour.
By forcing Dr Farham to resign, SAMA has brought itself into disrepute and has damaged the proud reputation of an organisation that claims, to unify doctors with diverse backgrounds and exists “to serve its members’ best interests and needs in all healthcare-related matters.”
Not only are they not fulfilling their mandate, but they are also behaving in a manner that is contrary to what we would hope to see from a medical professional body.
About the South African Jewish Board of Deputies:
The South African Jewish Board of Deputies is a leading organization representing the Jewish community in South Africa. Committed to promoting human rights, fostering intercultural dialogue, and ensuring the safety and well-being of communities, the SAJBD is at the forefront of advocacy and education on issues of national and international importance.