PRESS freedom entails certain responsibilities, that is, to safeguard human rights and to ensure the proper functioning of Guyana’s democracy. Journalists under a democratic society must promote liberal discussions, and encourage people to engage in healthy debate so as to advance the development and progress within Guyana. The power of the press should not be wielded recklessly or thoughtlessly, but always guided by conscience and careful thought.
The ‘press’ is a powerful tool and if used for the wrong reasons can do more harm than good. Information whether factual, fictional, or fantasy is disseminated through the press and it can pattern the thoughts and opinions of the people. It can change the perceptions of people, for or against someone and it can build up heroes or create villains. The power of the press and the analogous obligation to exercise that power with caution cannot be understated.
It is within this context that one should examine the reporting done by Stabroek News. For every prophet of doom who has castigated the visionary Low Carbon Development Strategy, Stabroek News has provided them with an avenue to spurt their venom, without allowing the government to respond.
The definite bias shown by the Stabroek News in favour of AFC propaganda does not augur well for best media practices in an elections year.
Their tacit support for the AFC prevents them from being partial and from asking questions for which the nation must be given answers.
And so it is within the context of the issues mentioned above, that Stabroek News continues to undermine press freedom by practicing slipshod journalism.