To All Media Houses
The Lesotho Chapter of Media Institute of Southern Africa (MISA Lesotho) strongly objects to the recent remarks made by the public officials that undermine the essential role of the media in a democratic society, particularly their attempts to intimidate and suppress the work of journalists.
First, we object to the comments made by the Principal Secretary of the Ministry of Energy, Mr Tankiso Phapano, during his press conference last week, where he
threatened to sue the media outlets such as the Lesotho Tribune and Lesotho Times for publishing reports that contradict his narrative. These remarks were a direct attack on the independence of the press and its ability to report facts, hold officials accountable and serve the public interest.
The media’s role is to investigate, report and ask critical questions without fear of retaliation. MISA Lesotho urges Mr Phapano and all public officials to respect the press’s right to report freely, without attempting to silence those who challenge or question official statements.
Secondly, MISA Lesotho is deeply concerned by the response from the Deputy Prime Minister, Chief Justice Nthomeng Majara, to a simple legitimate question posed by Moafrika FM’s reporter, Liteboho Hlakane, during a press conference organised by the National Assembly’s Women Caucus on Thursday.
Hlakane asked who had convened the press conference, inquiring whether it was organised by the “caucus ea basali” (Women’s caucus). In her response, Deputy Prime Minister Majara criticised the journalist for using the term “basali” (Women) and suggested that his choice of words reflected a negative attitude toward women. She even proposed that media training should be implemented to teach journalists how to carefully select their words.
MISA Lesotho affirms that Hlakane’s question was valid and in line with his professional duties as a reporter seeking clarity. Critinalising a journalist for asking necessary and pertinent question is a violation of press freedom and an attempt to stifle the media’s independence. The press must be free to ask question, report on issues and hold leaders accountable without fear of personal attacks or reprimands .Rather than criticizing journalists for asking questions, we urge public officials to engage deferentially, provide clear answers and contribute to a constructive dialogue that benefits the public.
The recent actions and comments from both Mr Phapano and Deputy Prime Minister Majara indicate a disturbing trend of hostility towards the media. MISA Lesotho reaffirms its position in support of press freedom and the protection of journalists’ rights. Journalists must be allowed to report freely and without fear of retribution or legal action.
MISA Lesotho calls on all public officials to respect the media’s role in democracy, to be open and transparent in their dealings with the press, and to foster an environment where journalists can perform their duties without undue interference. It is crucial for the democratic process that the media be allowed to fulfill its function of informing the public, promoting accountability and enabling the free exchange of ideas.
We encourage all leaders to engage constructively with the media, to be transparent and respect the vital role journalists play in safeguarding democracy and human rights. MISA Lesotho will continue to advocate for the protection of press freedom and the rights of journalists.
