May 6th, 2014 -- Ahead of UN World Press Freedom Day on May 3, the UPP wishes extend its gratitude and appreciation to all individuals who work to promote a free and fair media in our country.
It is important that political parties and government are held to account, and that the people of our country are provided with the information they need to make informed decisions. Our independent media houses play this role here in Antigua and Barbuda, and we are grateful for the public service they provide.
Commenting, UPP spokesperson Senator Malaka Parker said:
"This day should remind us all that a healthy democracy requires governments to be open to criticism as well as praise."
"There are many states around the world where freedom of speech is either non-existent or under threat, and I am immensely proud to say that I live in a country where our journalists have the right to speak openly and fairly. It was not always so under previous administrations, but this country has come a long way."
"This level of openness is the product of hard-fought victories won by individuals such as Winston and Ferhid Derrick, and Tim Hector, whose commitment to freedom set a standard across the Commonwealth."
"The UPP remains committed to free media, and we will never attempt to prevent an open and fair debate about our policies and performance in government."
*************************
DISCLAIMER
This article was posted in its entirety as received by SKNVibes.com. This media house does not correct any spelling or grammatical error within press releases and commentaries. The views expressed therein are not necessarily those of SKNVibes.com, its sponsors or advertisers
Antigua News