Moonilal stands by PM’s statements on media
Government Minister, Dr. Roodal Moonilal, has defended the Prime Minister’s statements on rogue elements within the media.
Dr. Moonilal said there has always been a healthy tension between the media and all Governments.
“We all agree that in a liberal democracy, the media and the Government should not be chummy, should not be one. We have great respect for the press and the press is free. But we are hoping that reporters, not all the media of course, but reporters would also be responsible and the Prime Minister asked the question where is the supervision of that responsibility coming from.”
While Minister Moonilal agreed that if there is proof of rogue elements, they should be identified, he thinks the Prime Minister’s statement is simply being blown out of proportion.
“This is not an issue of closing down radio or TV, or not giving print to the newspaper or chasing out reporters from a meeting as other administrations have done over the years. This is simply a Prime Minister saying ‘listen you all do great work, we have respect for you, but listen, we would like you to be responsible as well’.”