Dear Editor,

The Press Association of Jamaica (PAJ) is deeply concerned about claims made by supporters of the country’s two main political parties against journalists and media houses that could have deeper implications for the profession and those who work as media professionals.

The concern surrounds claims made in a video circulating online that falsely accuses the chairman of the RJRGLEANER Communications Group of directing editorial policy and links journalists at The Gleaner to the People’s National Party (PNP).

There is also the matter of Everald Warmington’s, Jamaica Labour Party (JLP) Member of Parliament for St Catherine South Western, insinuation at a party rally recently that the media and the PNP destroyed former JLP leaders Edward Seaga and Bruce Golding and is also intent on destroying JLP Leader Andrew Holness as well.

Other issues causing concern include the recent broadside by PNP President Mark Golding at his party’s annual conference where he labelled segments of the profession as “JLP-aligned media houses” and attempts by PNP supporters to falsely link the Jamaica Observer Limited’s deputy managing director to influencing editorial policy.

While we acknowledge the importance of free speech, we cannot tolerate misinformation that undermines the integrity of our profession. The PAJ reaffirms its commitment to promoting ethical journalism, media independence, and transparency.

We urge the JLP to condemn the video and ask its supporters to refrain from spreading harmful misinformation. Likewise, we urge the leadership of the PNP to refrain from making statements in the future that can be seen as an attack on the freedom of the press. We also invite the JLP and PNP to engage with us in a constructive conversation about the importance of media independence and fact-based reporting.

The PAJ stands in solidarity with our colleagues and rejects any attempts to politicise journalism and intimidate media practitioners. The PAJ reminds the public that a free press is essential to holding those in power accountable and ensuring transparency and accountability. We will not stand idly by while our members face harassment, intimidation, or smear campaigns.

We urge all Jamaicans to join us in condemning this attack on press freedom and reaffirming our commitment to a free and independent media.

Dashan Hendricks

President

Press Association of Jamaica