Sikua Government Upholding Media Freedom

Masi Honors Sikua Government For Upholding Media Freedom

The Media Association of Solomon Islands (MASI) today congratulates Prime Minister Dr Derek Sikua’s Government for upholding Media Freedom in the country.

Speaking at a RAMSI-sponsored lunch to mark World Media Freedom Day in Honiara today, MASI President John Lamani said local journalists and media personnel are so fortunate to work in a society free from threats and tyrannical governments.

He said the local situation reflects a government that truly champions the democratic principles of the right to freedom of expression and the right to be informed.

Since becoming Prime Minister in 2007, Dr Sikua became the Patron of the Honiara Press Club which he launched in May 2008 in Honiara.

Dr Sikua said the media is an important avenue for informing people on issues and events that affect their lives.

He said an ill-informed society cannot function and the media’s information role is crucial to ensure people are well and accurately informed.

The Prime Minister also reminded the media fraternity that freedom comes with responsibility.

“Freedom without responsibility is dangerous and will cause disharmony in society,” Dr Sikua said.

Mr Lamani supported the Prime Minister’s call and urges reporters to take extra care when telling stories to the public.

“We must check our facts, check and recheck to ensure our stories are fair, accurate and balance,” he said.

MASI members this week celebrated the World Media Freedom starting last Friday.

ENDS

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