06th May 2019 More than 20 media personnel and Senior Government Officers attended a special event to mark World Press Freedom Day last Friday evening at BroadCom Broadcasting Head Office at Vikilani House.
The program was hosted by the Staff of BroadCom Broadcasting (87.5 FM) in collaboration with the Media Association of Tonga (MAT).
The Guest of Honor, Acting Attorney General of Tonga Mr. ‘Aminiasi Kefu highlighted the event with a presentation that based on the media and law in Tonga. He also talked about the Media of Tonga in the past, the media now and into the future.
He emphasized that freedom of information should be enforced in the future and to also maintain media independence and media discipline. In that way, media will have the full support and trust of the public.
Director of the Department of Information under the Ministry of MEIDECC Mr. Andrew To’imoana stated that this program reminds media of the vital role they play in a political system, in supporting and strengthening the public in their everyday decisions when it comes to election.
Statement from the Secretary-General of the United Nations, António Guterres on May 03rd stated: “A free press is essential for peace, justice, sustainable development, and human rights.”
“No democracy is complete without access to transparent and reliable information. It is the cornerstone for building fair and impartial institutions, holding leaders accountable and speaking truth to power.”
World Press Freedom Day is celebrated every year on May 03rd. This year’s Theme is “Media for Democracy Journalism and Elections in Times of Disinformation.”
The event was blessed by Rev. Dr. Taliai Niumeitolu. Also attended the program was the President of the Media Association (MAT) of Tonga Lady Luseane Luani.
ENDS
Issued by the Ministry of Meteorology, Energy, Information, Disaster Management, Environment, Climate Change, and Communications