Press Club condemns attacks on journalists

Political Parties should appreciate and uphold journalists' work, even if they do not agree with individual journalists, the Malta Press Club urged in a statement on Friday evening.

"While upholding the rights to freedom of speech and freedom of expression, journalists and contributors should seek to do their duty honestly both for the sake of the people and those who offer their services for the good of the people of Malta and Gozo, dedicating themselves to political activity," it said.

The Press Club council noted with displeasure the attacks made by politicians on journalists during the campaign, obstructing the journalists in their work.

"Those who present themselves to serve the country should be subject to the scrutiny of public opinion. This is one of the journalist's roles in a democratic society.

"The council appeals to the political parties to respect journalists' work and to give them every opportunity to do their duty to their readers, listeners and viewers by giving them every opportunity to give the information fully.

"During the sensitive period of a general election, every effort should be made for the press not to be obstructed in any way in carrying out its work. The council appeals to contributors in the communications media to be prudent and avoid using language or graphics that could add to tension."

Without entering in the merits of a case that is before the courts, the council upheld the right to freedom of expression and the right to receive information as inalienable rights.

The council does not agree that journalistic content should be withheld or subject to advance scrutiny. On the other hand, those who are offended by anything published or broadcast should take all the steps allowed by law to safeguard their rights and, if in the wrong, journalists should face the consequences.

The Broadcasting Authority has the obligation to ensure that all political parties are given the same facilities on the state broadcasting media to communicate their views, the Press Club said, but the parties are free to use those facilities or not without prejudice to the other parties.