As we recognize this uniquely important workforce, let’s adopt a zero tolerance to violence against journalists.
Lusaka, May 3 – Mansa Central Constituency Member of Parliament and Patriotic Front party presidential candidate has issued a very profound Press Statement recognising the media fraternity.
He writes…
Today, the 3rd of May, as we commemorate the World Press Freedom Day, l stand with all our journalists and media workers, in their very noble quest to promote transparency and accountability, so our society is lit enough to curb all forms of illiberal values.
The role the media play in this regard, is fundamental in many respects.
The job of gathering and disseminating information to society is often fraught with many challenges, sometimes even life threatening, but the nobility embedded therein, is worthwhile.
Press Freedom is indeed the very fabric of other human rights; our task of the moment, collectively, is to embrace media pluralism, freedom of speech and association, and access to information.
These rights are, in any civilised society, inalienable from all citizens.The value of media freedom and free speech are indispensable in a free and democratic society.
Press Freedom, which underpins free speech is the bedrock of the very idea of human freedom.
The celebration of Freedom of Speech, therefore, is a celebration of life itself.
Further l vouch for self- regulation of the media, on the proviso that ethics and professionalism are pitched high to root out disinformation and paid lies that hurt the reputations of individuals or institutions targeted by rougue elements that sadly invade the rather elavated spaces of this noble profession.
As we recognize this uniquely important workforce, let’s adopt a zero tolerance to violence against journalists.
Let’s frown upon any incidents by state and non state actors to intimidate, harass or harm scribes in their course of duty. Let’s, instead, forge a firm partnership with the media to, inter alia, disseminate health promoting messages, sensitize the public on the existential threat of climate change and to entrench peace, democracy and the rule of law.
On a day of such monumental significance, it’s befitting, too, to honor, as l do now, all fallen media Practioners. I further take this opportunity to honor my late father, Henry Chilufya, a veteran journalist and other fallen journalists of his generation for pioneering the current media freedom that succeeding generations of the media workers must always uphold.
Yes l stand with, and salute, all of you our media personel on this day, the World Press Freedom Day!
Also Read: Dr. Chilufya stands with Chibombo infernal victims!
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