A sad chapter has come to a close in South African journalism with Afrikaans publication Vrye Weekblad announcing its closure, which leaves writer Herman Lategan reflecting on the implications for progressive discourse within the language.
Having written his last Afrikaans article for the publication, Lategan reflects on his journey and the stark reality that there seem to be no remaining outlets for progressive Afrikaans voices. In his article published on February 14, 2025, he lays bare his disappointment with the current state of Afrikaans journalism, pointing out that remaining publications such as Netwerk24 and Maroela Media lean too far to the right for his taste.
“The number of open-minded Afrikaners of all colors and creeds probably won’t even be able to fill the DHL Stadium in Green Point,” he laments, lamenting the fate of Afrikaans literature amidst a decline in readership. The closure of significant publications over the years, including Die Suid-Afrikaan, Insig, Insig Boeke, and De Kat, can be attributed to a lack of interest from readers. This poignantly reflects a larger cultural issue as the Afrikaans-speaking populace, estimated at around 8 million, has not supported its progressive voices.
Lategan expresses frustration at these trends that have led to what he describes as a “dull echo chamber of uniformity” within the remaining platforms. He states, “Supposed well-read Afrikaners have for decades bemoaned the lack of fresh voices with gravitas in their own language, but yet they sat back in silence as one publication after the other folded.” This frustration extends to a sense of apathy among many who claim they consume news primarily from overseas sources, further alienating local talent.
In reflecting on his career, Lategan recalls his freelance work spanning over 80 publications since the late 1980s, including his early stories for Vrye Weekblad during a politically charged era. It was a publication that carved a space for alternate perspectives and ideas that he felt propelled him through the years. “Vrye Weekblad was different,” he notes nostalgically. The publication’s unique approach provided him with a platform to champion stories that often fell outside of mainstream narratives.
In recent years, Lategan saw a resurgence of his passion for Afrikaans when he was offered a permanent position by editor Max du Preez, calling him “one of the coolest editors to work for.” This new opportunity allowed Lategan to explore a rich realm of stories, from profiles on local personalities to covering experiences in the Maitland cemetery where “over 500,000 people [are] buried.” He recounts profound moments spent unveiling tales of human triumph and despair.
However, as Vrye Weekblad’s financial constraints have mounted, it has become evident that readers were unwilling to pay R75 per month for its offerings—features of diverse stories and political opinions. “It’s all gone now, Vrye Weekblad is closing,” he confirms with dismay, recognizing that it reflects not only on the publication's fate but on a cultural trend where progressive voices struggle to survive.
Now at the milestone of 60, Lategan concludes the curtain on his Afrikaans journalism career where it all began at the publication in his early twenties. “I’ve lived my fucking dream,” he reflects. Through this poignant farewell, Lategan has begun working on a novel in English that aims to encapsulate the vibrant yet tumultuous life of journalism. As he quotes to signify the end of an era: “Goodnight, comrades.”
