“We have always affirmed that our political and democratic reform project will go ahead, and that freedom of media will continue to be hallmark of reforms,” HM King added.
His Majesty has paid tribute to all journalists, media personnel and intellectuals for their crucial role in protecting the country’s security and stability, and promoting national progress and prosperity.
In an address marking the World Press Freedom Day, which falls on May 3, HM the King affirmed unwavering respect of press and media freedom.
He stressed resolve to continue the reform and democratic project unabated to promote political and media plurality and responsible freedom, and urged commitment to professional and ethical standard, underling the importance of heeding vital national interests.
HM the King cited constant directives to protect press and media outlets and personnel from attempts aiming to limit their freedom and undermine the exercise of their enlightenment role, in accordance with the provisions of the Constitution and the National Action Charter.
He urged cooperation in order to speedy approve of a restriction-free modern and enlightened Press and Printing Law that copes with the development and democratic reforms witnessed by the kingdom and enable journalists to reveal truth, fight corruption, identify irregularities and enlighten the public.
HM the King lauded laud the crucial role played by the national press throughout its long and “honourable” history, particularly during the regretful incidents witnessed by the kingdom in 2011, when it played a major role in countering the fallacious media campaigns staged against the country, directing all officials to respect the press and cooperate fully with journalists, media personnel and intellectuals so as to be able to assume their duties easily and achieve public interests.
HM King Hamad called upon all parties and institutions to support the national press and deal with it as a means to enlighten the public and spread culture and awareness among the citizens, stressing that the mission of the press is noble and should not be compromised.
HM the King renewed call to all constitutional branches to cooperate with the Press, being the fourth Estate that plays an equally vital role in the kingdom’s democratic experience.
HM King Hamad reiterated commitment to “the right to freedom of opinion and expression,” stipulated by Article 19 of the Universal Declaration of Human Rights, calling on journalists to exercise such a right with responsibility and in accordance with laws, regulations and the code of professional conduct.
HM the King urged the press to take advantage of its highly important role in fostering tolerance, respect and freedom of religion and belief, and avoid being used as tools of incitement and indecency and means to disseminate the hatred discourse, noting that the exercise of the discretionary power shall not affect basic liberties.
He cited directives to promote housing projects for journalists and media personnel, directing the relevant sides to expedite the implementation of the project in order to ensure stability and comfort for journalists.
HM the King praised the theme of the this year’s World Press Freedom Day, “Media Freedom for a Better Future: Shaping the Post-2015 Development Agenda”, and directed the concerned sides to cooperate with the Bahrain Journalists’ Association (BJA) to launch a “Bahraini Press Day” to be an occasion to honour the national press and pay tribute to journalists and media persons for their patriotic efforts and noble mission.