When discussing issues on newspaper and electronic media forums, I see a plethora of people attempting to shut down informed and lively discussion as they pursue their private agendas attacking individuals and not their argument – this corrupts press freedom.

The function of the press in a free and democratic society is to perform a check on the executive and judicial processes of government. In a democratic society, a free press serves as a regulatory function holding government and bureaucratic leaders accountable to the public preventing power without responsibility. Educating citizens so  informed decisions can be undertaken maintaining transparency and public scrutiny. A free press publishes issues of importance to ordinary citizens allowing freedom of speech and advocacy with an exchange of ideas maintaining a watchdog function.

Sadly, without a free and independent press; the responsibility for public information and dissemination resides solely the government. As has been seen in so many totalitarian regimes; this process is abused allowing the government to control the issues and discussion. But when allowed to function freely, the press acts as the building blocks of democracy. By keeping citizens informed, individuals have access to government allowing transparency.

One has to remember, the news is not only watched and read by its citizens, the authorities do so as well. Public opinion and influence are formed by the press, the very reason why politicians and government spokespeople appear on news services, talk-back radio and in print media. They are well aware that public perception is important and need to reinforce their message by appearing in media that may not support their views, they need to sell their policy.

When they are able to function freely, local newspapers and radio and television stations can be important building blocks of democracy. In addition to serving as a watchdog on local institutions and alerting the public to safety issues, they can help citizens understand and access their distant government. We all know it is difficult to gain access to political figures and discuss important policy, we all ave the opportunity to watch the news or read the newspaper.

The news is watched by the authorities as well as the citizens. When the government tried to shut down the station at one point in order to control its political influence, the public and sponsors protested, and the government had to let it reopen. This civic information is the fuel of democracy. The people become better educated and take more responsibility for their own well being. The media can act as a safety valve by offering a forum for diverse voices to be heard.