Dear Editor
PLEASE permit me to ventilate my views on a matter of public interest. This relates (to)the article published in the Kaieteur News, November 19, 2017, Story within the story a “Cesspool of corruption at City Hall” by Leonard Gildarie. The truism is Guyana is a democratic society, in which the freedom of expression is embraced.

I viewed the assertions made by Mr. Gildarie about corruption at City Hall, as outrageous and defamatory, since the author did not cite cases and examples and did not present documented evidence in this regards. Further, this piece of writing has implications for City managers past and present; even the parent body–Ministry of Communities.

The fact is, if we encourage media freedom and expression in a democratic society, it is an absolute imperative that freedom is exercised in a responsible manner. This would mean that the press, whether print, radio, television or internet, should show and exercise their freedom responsibly by considering the interests of individuals, institutions and society. Hence, responsibility, ethical consideration,(and) journalistic principles should be balanced, even if there is an ulterior motive, insidious political agenda or simply chasing readership. Therefore, in producing content for public consumption fairness, objectivity and balance should be tempered responsibly.

I concur that the channels and opportunities for intellectual discourse, healthy debate and discussion must remain an important feature of any democratic society. Mr. Editor, the journalistic profession is not advanced when professionalism and proper journalist ethics are not exhibited. The article by Mr. Gildarie is weighed in the balance and found wanting.

Regards
Akeem Bennons