Al-Aiser: Sudan faces challenges require renewal of legislation on journalism and guaranteeing freedoms. Minister of Culture and Information Khalid Al-Aiser said that the country was facing challenges that require the issuance of new legislation regulating journalism, protecting freedoms, and ensuring responsible professional performance.
According to Sudan News Agency, the Minister of Culture and Information, Khalid Al-Aiser, highlighted the rapid development in the media sector, including the rise of electronic and citizen journalism, as well as significant political transformations locally, regionally, and globally, alongside the current security situation in Sudan. Al-Aiser made these remarks during a workshop in Port Sudan discussing proposals to amend the Press and Publications Act.
The Minister emphasized that press legislation is a fundamental pillar of any media system, acting as a benchmark for media freedom in countries. He stressed the importance of enacting laws that protect freedom while regulating it to serve the public, preserve national security, and uphold societal values. Al-Aiser noted that Sudan is in a transitional phase that demands the consolidation of rule of law values, combating hate speech, and strengthening national sovereignty.
Al-Aiser also highlighted the pivotal role of media in educating citizens and aiding informed decision-making. He reiterated the state’s obligation to provide freedoms within a solid professional and legal framework, ensuring media professionals’ dignity and preserving the profession’s status. The Minister pointed out that global technological and digital transformations necessitate updating media laws to encompass modern media platforms and concepts.
Expressing the Ministry of Culture and Information’s stance, Al-Aiser underlined the need for national consensus through open dialogue involving stakeholders. This approach aims to create a media landscape that mirrors the Sudanese people’s aspirations for freedom, justice, and democracy. He acknowledged media professionals’ crucial role in state-building and shaping public opinion, advocating for their empowerment and involvement in decision-making and national policy formulation.