WE WELCOME the decision of the government to remove the offensive Sections 6 (3) and 6 (4) from the Corruption Prevention Bill. These sections sought to impose stiff fines and even imprisonment on the Press for the publication of information received from the Commission for Prevention of Corruption.
In voicing opposition to the offensive sections in the legislation both the heads of media and the Media Association pointed out that they represented an onerous fetter on freedom of the Press to engage in its legitimate business of providing information to the public.
Our regret is that it has taken as long as it has to remove the Sections and that there was so much intransigence on the part of Government Spokesmen even after the likely impact of the legislation on a free and Independent Press was explained.
This newspaper, and we believe all local media, are fully supportive of anti-corruption legislation. And in light of recent public revelation it seems there is urgent need for the media to exert its influence as a force for reform, uncovering shortcomings in society and providing information that government officials, business leaders and others are often reluctant to divulge.
It has been demonstrated time and time again, that one of the best safeguards against corruption is a free and vigilant Press which takes seriously its role as a watchdog of the public interest.
We note the Prime Minister's statement that the removal of Section 6 (3) from the bill must not be seen as legitimising irresponsible conduct.
The Press is aware of the legal remedies open to individuals whose reputations have been tarnished by the unauthorised disclosure of confidential information. In this, as in so many other instances, the Press has to strike a balance between the individual's right to privacy and the public interest.
The opinions on this page, except for the above, do not necessarily reflect the views of The Gleaner.
