[ Laman Ehwal Semasa ReformIS ]
Date: 12 Sep 1999
Time: 22:04:04
Remote User: -
M E D I A S T A T E M E N T
12 September 1999
JOURNALIST JAILED
The Appeals Court rejection of Far Eastern Economic Review journalist Murray Herbert’s appeal against his three month's jail sentence for contempt of court raises fundamental questions about freedom of expression in the country.
Herbert who began serving a six week jail term yesterday is the first journalist in the country’s history to be imprisoned for contempt of court. Other journalists have been convicted under the Official Secrets Act (OSA) and the Seduction Act.
When the laws of the land are used to thwart freedom of thought and expression, society will not mature and develop. The truth will remain suppressed. And wrongdoings and injustices will thrive.
By choosing to go to jail immediately, Herbert has displayed courage and integrity. Parti KeADILan Nasional hope that his example will inspire other journalists in the country to stand up for their rights, whatever the costs and consequences.
DR. CHANDRA MUZAFFAR
Deputy President
Parti KeADILan Nasional