THE People’s National Congress Reform has retracted a statement it issued over the weekend saying that President David Granger had complained about “daily challenges faced by the coalition from sections of the media.”

In a statement on Wednesday retracting the weekend release, the PNCR said after examining the transcripts of President Granger’s address to General Council on Saturday, May 19, 2018, it was found that remarks attributed to him were taken out of context. “The People’s National Congress Reform (PNCR) is, therefore, retracting our Press Release dated May 20, 2018, “PNCR General Council Meeting.”

The party added that President Granger has long been and will continue to be a strong advocate and defender of the freedom of information that is guaranteed under Article 146 of the Constitution of the Cooperative Republic of Guyana.

“The Leaders and members of the PNCR strongly believe that free access to information is an inalienable right of every citizen. It is an indispensable condition of a democratic society. Citizens’ access to information is a democratic right and information is necessary for citizens’ informed participation in society.

“Restrictions in the flow of information deny citizens the opportunity to participate fully in decision-making and, thereby impair democracy.”

The PNCR said it is committed also to non-interference in the independent media, noting that independent media act as watchdogs of the Government.

“They promote transparency by ensuring that information is provided to the public on the work of the Government. They are a source of valuable feedback on the effectiveness of the efforts of the Government. There is no good reason for the State to interfere in the work of the private-media.

“The relationship between the State and the private-media must be seen as a partnership in providing a public good, that is, public information for the citizens of this country. Independence of thought must be preserved, professionalism must be promoted and the Constitution of Guyana must be upheld.”