PAJ condemns attacks on media

The Press Association of Jamaica (PAJ) has expressed deep concern about claims made by supporters of the country’s two main political parties against journalists and media houses that it says could have deeper implications for the profession and those who work as media professionals.

In a statement last night, the PAJ said the concern surrounds claims made in a video circulating online that falsely accuses the chairman of the RJRGLEANER Communications Group of directing editorial policy and links journalists at The Gleaner to the People’s National Party (PNP).

“There is also the matter of Everald Warmington, Jamaica Labour Party member of parliament for St Catherine Southwestern, insinuation at a party rally recently, that the media and the People’s National Party (PNP) destroyed former JLP leaders Edward Seaga and Bruce Golding and is also intent on destroying Andrew Holness as well,” the PAJ noted.

Other issues highlighted as a cause for concern by the PAJ include what it called the recent broadside by PNP President Mark Golding at his party’s annual conference where he labelled segments of the profession as “JLP-aligned media houses” and attempts by PNP supporters to falsely link the Jamaica Observer Limited’s deputy managing director to influencing editorial policy.

“While we acknowledge the importance of free speech, we cannot tolerate misinformation that undermines the integrity of our profession. The PAJ reaffirms its commitment to promoting ethical journalism, media independence, and transparency,” the PAJ said.

“We urge the JLP to condemn the video and ask its supporters to refrain from spreading harmful misinformation. Likewise, we urge the leadership of the PNP to refrain from making statements in the future that can be seen as an attack on the freedom of the press to do its work. We also invite the JLP and PNP to engage with us in a constructive conversation about the importance of media independence and fact-based reporting.”

The PAJ said it stands in solidarity with its colleagues and rejects any attempts to politicise journalism or intimidate media practitioners.

In addition, the association that represents journalists sought to remind the public that “a free press is essential to holding those in power accountable and ensuring transparency and accountability”.

The association added, “We will not stand idly by while our members face harassment, intimidation, or smear campaigns. We urge all Jamaicans to join us in condemning this attack on press freedom and reaffirming our commitment to a free and independent media.”