Cuito - The governor of central Bié province, Pereira Alfredo, Friday defended the need for media professionals to prioritize journalism capable of ensuring and strengthening democracy, based on respect for differences of opinion and preservation of citizens' rights.
In a congratulatory note on the occasion of May 3, World Press Freedom Day, to which ANGOP had access, the governor called on journalists to give priority to a culture of peace and to invest in the true exercise of citizenship, which seeks harmonious coexistence in the face of differences.
The politician urged respect for the fidelity of ethical and deontological principles, and called on journalists to resist the temptation to deviate from the focus, with subjective interests that do not add value to society.
Alfredo encouraged free, impartial, plural and objective journalism to raise citizens' critical and political awareness, guaranteeing the right to inform and be informed under the terms of the Constitution and the Law.
Pereira Alfredo recognized the efforts of journalists to fulfill their duty to inform, train and educate citizens, having expressed the continued support of the local government authorities in ensuring greater openness of information sources.
To mark the May 3, the Angolan Journalists' Union (SJA) in Bié province held the first symposium on press freedom on Thursday, where it was concluded that there have been improvements in this area in the country, although it must be a constant struggle for professionals and society.
The speakers and participants, including journalists, jurists, MPs, academics, students and others, emphasized that progress has been made, but recommended more openness, contradiction and respect for the law.
World Press Freedom Day was established during the XXVI Session of the UNESCO General Conference in Paris in October and November 1991, but began to be commemorated on 3 May.
The date aims to raise awareness among political leaders and civil society about the defence of press freedom, as well as to honour media professionals killed in the course of their duties.JEC/PLB/DAN/AMP
