Rowley praises media for protecting citizens

Opposition Leader Dr Keith Rowley said the role of mass media in protecting citizens can never be overemphasised. During his Republic Day address yesterday, Rowley said: “Especially at a time like this the nation owes a deep debt of gratitude to those vigilant professionals who work in the mass media. These are the men and women who legitimise the doctrine that the price of freedom is eternal vigilance.

“The role of the mass media in protecting us citizens from the excesses and indiscretions of unworthy leaders is not to be undervalued...We express deep appreciation to our journalists for their stick-to-itiveness and dedication to duty, particularly in the dogged protection of our democracy.”

Rowley said in support of their efforts, citizens must not fail to come to terms with the fact that the key to eternal vigilance is a well- informed, enlightened and educated society and it was therefore incumbent upon all of us to maintain an open mind and a watchful eye in being so endowed.

“On this, the occasion of the 36th anniversary of the attainment of Republic status of our beloved nation, I will be less than honest if I attempt to conceal the fact that it is with a spirit of deep concern on the one hand but with abundant faith on the other, that I welcome this opportunity to address a few remarks to all my fellow citizens, at home and abroad,” he said.

Rowley said in critical times like these basic principles were being swept aside, treasured values are being eroded and leaders lose respect and regard for the noblest traditions of civilised society. Rowley said the underlying standards for the functioning of vital institutions of State, including our Parliament, were bring conveniently and unashamedly compromised.

“To add to the imposition, our leaders, rather than humble themselves and magnanimously honour their sacred oath to promote and defend the public interest, hasten uncaringly to exercise the preference of championing the evils of misbehavior in and out of public office to a degree which defies wisdom, decorum, decency and understanding,” he said. Rowley said it was time to take stock and contemplate the well-being of our country.

“While therefore I delight in wishing all my fellow citizens a happy and restful Republic Day, I call upon you to join with me in using the occasion to take stock of the developments which are engulfing and embattling us and seek to contemplate and clarify in our own minds the destiny which we all so fervently wish to set for the welfare and well- being of our beloved homeland,” he said.