In a democratic society, media plays the crucial role of a watchdog by keeping governments accountable, and fearlessly upholding the public’s right to information.
Fiji Labour Party leader Mahendra Chaudhry said this in his message for World Press Freedom Day celebrated on Friday.
“This may be an opportune time to remember that while an unfettered media is vital for the proper functioning of a democratic society, this freedom comes with onerous responsibilities,” Mr Chaudhry said.
“This is the yardstick by which to judge the effectiveness of any media organisation.
“Let us not just pay lip service to this important freedom.
“Our media organisations need to look critically at their performance and make an honest assessment of how effectively and honestly they are meeting their role as the people’s watchdog.”
He said the media in Fiji had a crucial role to play as the country attempted to rebuild after 14 years of “repressive and autocratic rule”.
“Having been through such a traumatic experience over 14 years, we ought to cherish and exercise our new-found freedom in the best interests of journalistic ethics.
“It may take years to rebuild journalistic skills lost as a result of these repressive years.”
Mr Chaudhry added the media must be extra vigilant in upholding its responsibilities as the people’s watchdog.
