Port Sudan: Minister of Culture and Information Khalid Al-Aiser has emphasized the crucial role of the press in adhering to professional and ethical standards that define journalism. He highlighted this as essential for ensuring responsible performance that embodies the “Fourth Estate” and enhances its role in societal development, promoting values like freedom, transparency, and accountability.
According to Sudan News Agency, Al-Aiser’s remarks were made during the opening session of a workshop in Port Sudan, aimed at discussing amendments to the Press and Publications Act. The workshop, held under the theme “Media Freedom with Professional Standards,” arrives at a pivotal time for the nation, necessitating a reevaluation of the media sector. The minister pointed out the ministry’s continuous efforts to rejuvenate the national media’s role and bolster its presence in public discourse to enlighten the populace and support national institutions.
The Minister expressed that the workshop aims to create a future vision for press and publications, hoping it will contribute to molding a desired state through responsible journalism and patriotic journalists committed to the nation’s concerns. He stated that the workshop was organized by a preparatory committee that has completed its task, with documents presented for open discussion, and he welcomed all recommendations and proposals from participants.
Al-Aiser reminded attendees of the nation’s history with press legislation, noting that the first press act was issued in 1930 and the last amendment was in 2009. He remarked on the ministry’s recent progress with the stagnant file, which had seen numerous unsuccessful attempts in the past. He called on stakeholders to approach national media issues with patience, objectivity, and fairness, avoiding practices such as outbidding or defamation that do not serve the public interest.