The Editors’ Council has expressed deep concern over the process and timing of the two draft ordinances recently published concerning the National Media Commission and the Broadcasting Commission, which are available on the Ministry of Information and Broadcasting’s website.
With the elections just around the corner, the Editors’ Council considers the hurried publication of such important draft ordinances—with far-reaching implications—to be unintended and unreasonable.
Draft laws that directly affect media freedom, professional standards of journalism, and the future of the broadcasting system cannot be adopted without proper discussion and review, said a statement issued by the council on Sunday.
According to the Editors’ Council, the structure and provisions of these draft ordinances raise clear concerns of state control rather than safeguarding media freedom. Additionally, seeking opinions within a limited time frame to complete the legislative process runs counter to participatory and democratic practice.
The council believes that the formulation of such significant laws should take place after the formation of an elected parliament, through broad and meaningful discussions with all relevant stakeholders—including journalists, editors, media organizations, and representatives of civil society.
When it comes to ensuring media freedom and professional security, a transparent, participatory, and responsible process—not haste—is in the best interest of the country and democracy, said the council.
