The flagrant press irregularities committed by Bahrain daily Al-Wasat are being referred to the International Federation of Journalists (IFJ) and the Arab Journalists Union (AJU), it was announced. “All press unions and professional bodies will be notified about Al-Wasat deliberate fasciation, fabrication and plagiarism for a clear stance to be taken regarding the violations which sullied the press profession”, the Bahrain Journalists Association said.
BJA chairman Isa Al-Shaiji presided over an urgent meeting in the wake of the compelling programme aired on Bahrain TV, exposing Al-Wasat deliberate news fabrication and falsification during the recent unrest which gripped the Kingdom of Bahrain.
The BJA board expressed its shock over Al-Wasat deliberate forgery in a blatant and clear drive to subvert Bahrain’s security and stability, escalate the crisis and deepen the polarization gripping the Kingdom. The panel described the falsification as a flagrant violation of the IJD principles and code of ethics governing the press profession. Under the first IJF principle, the journalist commits to respecting the truth as well as the right to the public to know the truth.
Under 7th IJF principle, the journalist shall realize the potential danger of the media in promoting discrimination and sowing division. Journalists shall also commit to avoid facilitating any discrimination based on race, gender, religion, political opinion or any other considerations. Under the 8th IJF, deceit, forgery and deliberate falsification of the truth amount to fragrant press violations. “Al-Wasat violations represent an affront to international principles and a stain sullying Bahrain’s press, long known for credibility, moderation and honourable history”. BJA said.
It dismissed Al-Wasat violations as totally unjustified and unexplainable, seeking only to subvert Bahrain’s security and target officials in charge of maintaining the country’s stability. It also welcomed the decision of the Information Affairs Authority(IAA)) allowing Al-Wasat republishing as per from Monday. It also welcomed Abidli Al-Abidli as editor-in-chief, wishing him success in his duties, calling on the new Al-Wasat administration to issue a clear explanation for the public to know the truth and concerned people to be held accountable.