Chiang Mai (Mizzima) - Thai media organizations released a statement on World Press Freedom Day on May 3, urging every segment of society to understand the role of the media in political conflicts and not threaten media rights and freedom.
Seven major media associations in Thailand including Thai Journalist Associations released a statement on Sunday calling on the government to protect media rights and freedom and not to obstruct and interfere with media operations both directly and indirectly in all forms of media including internet, satellite TV and community radios.
“In case any media violates the law, the authorities should use the legal process to investigate transparently and fairly. The government should not discriminate against certain media organization or use other strategies which are unlawful and limits freedom of expression,” according to the statement.
The group noted that politicians and related parties in political conflicts must understand the role of the media in looking for facts, news and information and provide it to the public. “Political opponents must stop stirring people to hate the media and stop using media as a propaganda tool which adds to conflict in society.”
In addition the groups warned public audiences to receive news and information with an open mind, listen to different opinions from various media, and “be careful in receiving information from certain media which are used as political tools by some groups that could lead to political violence.”
However, the groups also noted that the media itself should respect media moral, for a balanced view and to ensure that justice prevails for those in the news and other concerned parties. The press should avoid unprofessional competition in news presentation, as the delivery of incomplete information and facts could cause confusion among the public and a misunderstanding of the actual situation.
“We insisted that freedom in reporting news and opinion is important for democratic development of the country. Any action which harms the freedom of expression of media and people is unacceptable,” the group concluded.
On Monday, representatives from 21 organisations led by the Thai Journalists Association and the Senate held a rally at Lumpini Park and marched along Silom Road to call for peace. The "Stop Harming Thailand" event was held in the morning at the King Mongkut Institute.
The campaign was for political opponents to stop using violence.
Thai media was criticized widely about its role in the current political tension.
Violence and tension had gripped Bangkok in April. It has inevitably led to charges and counter-charges between the protesters and the government. The confusion, allegations, and alleged misinformation from any side underscore the importance of allowing independent journalists to do their jobs. However, there have been several instances when the media was threatened both verbally and physically while it was doing its duty.
In the middle of April, Sondhi Limthongkul, leader of the People’s Alliance for Democracy (PAD) movement, who is anti former Thai Prime Minister, Thaksin Shinawatra, was attacked by a group of gunmen in Bangkok, while he was on his way to office. He barely survived the attempted assassination bid.
