Media freedom motion crushed

Phyo Min Thein, MP from the National League for Democracy (NLD) for Hlegu Township in Yangon who submitted the motion, said media needs freedom and take responsibility and accountability for its own actions. In a democratic transition, media freedom is essential, he said. Only with complete media freedom could the people monitor the government in a democratic way. 

“There are several instances of how the media is intentionally targeted for oppression. Everyone knows that the murder of freelance reporter Par Gyi has horrified the whole industry. Another example is the Information Ministry’s lawsuit against Eleven Media Group [EMG] (for reports on the loss of public funds). Another case is about Unity Weekly’s coverage of a secret chemical weapons factory in Pauk Township. It is clear that media freedom is being systematically encroached upon,” Phyo Min Thein told Parliament.    

Pike Htwe, the deputy minister of information, lashed back. He insisted the ministry consulted the interim press council before taking legal actions. 

“There's no reason for journalists to end up in court if they follow media ethics regulated by the Press Council and the standing laws."

Disappointed, Phyo Min Thein vowed to fight on. “I said the Lower House is responsible for pushing for liberty of information. I won’t give up."

NLD chairperson Aung San Suu Kyi said: "The proposal just called for matters to be run in line with the law. I have no idea why it was rejected.”