Media bodies ask POMC to review orders restricting press freedom

The statement was issued by the Thai Journalists Association, the National Press Council of Thailand, the Broadcast Journalists Association and the News Broadcasting Council of Thailand.

The statement said the POMC’s Order numbers 3, 6,7,8, 9/2014 adversely affected the freedom of expression guaranteed by Article 45 of the Constitution, especially numbers 6 and 7 which seek cooperation to suspend the operation of 14 satellite-television stations and community radio stations that do not have an operating licence until an order for change is imposed.

The media bodies cited the third paragraph of Article 45 of the charter, which stipulates that the closure of newspapers and other media in order to restrict press freedom is not permitted. 

The statement also said that although some satellite-TV stations and community radio stations had been used as a political tool by disseminating hate speech, and had used their liberty without responsibility in a way that could instigate violence, the POMC should seek cooperation from the National Broadcasting and Telecommunications Commission (NBTC) to ensure the media strictly followed the law and used their freedom of expression responsibly.

“We urge the POMC to exercise discretion before suspending media that it believes could intensify conflicts, distort the facts or confuse the public, since the POMC’s orders are regarded as a severe deprivation of media freedom,’’ it stated.

The group also urged the cancellation of Order number 9, which bans the media from inviting people to give interviews or expressing an opinion. 

It reasoned that media editors must be allowed to exercise their judgment in inviting people for interviews or offering opinions, as long as they do not worsen the conflict or lead to violence.

They also demanded that the POMC declare an intention to support and not obstruct the media from carrying out their duty in providing accurate and well-rounded coverage, and to respect freedom of expression in online media.

The group also urged media professionals to carry out their duty ethically and responsibly in the country’s interest.