Dear Editor,

The People’s National Party expresses its deep concern regarding reports of threats to media practitioners and media houses. We view such a development as most unfortunate, especially at this time when there is so much tension in the society.

All modern democracies depend on a free and unhindered press to keep track of and report on political, social, economic and other related developments within society. The People’s National Party appreciates this to be an integral feature within the Jamaican society if we are to achieve the quality society we yearn for and to attain developed-country status. Both objectives depend upon a respect and appreciation of the “knowledge-based society”.

We find this recent episode to be particularly troubling as it follows closely what we believe to be a most unfortunate and ill-advised decision of the prime minister to identify specific commentators by name, and to have done so at no less a place than the election of a president of a JLP affiliate organisation.

The fact that the Jamaica Constabulary Force has confirmed that the information regarding the threats is credible, and that it seems to be directly related to reports across the media on the protracted processing of an extradition request of a Jamaican believed to have close links to the governing party are all the more disturbing.

We use this opportunity to recommit to you our support and insistence for a free, fair and unhindered Press and to place on record our denouncement of these developments. We look forward to a continued rich and supportive relationship with the media and press associations, and beyond that to an open society and a vibrant democracy.

We are available and stand ready to add our voices to provide our support for the attainment and protection of these hallmarks which are fundamental to the well-being of any modern society.

Robert Pickersgill

Chairman, PNP

Kingston