Press Role in the Democratic Development
Mr. Chalermchai Sri-On, the member of the House of Representatives, Prachuab Kirikhan Province said that with the cooperation of Parliament Radio, they have had a debate under the topic Press Role in Democratic Development. Since nowadays, the press plays a giant role in society as well as in the political area; it certainly influences the democratic development in the country. What the government and private sectors have in common is the ethics in presenting accurate news and information. However, the press seems to be influenced by some factors and is presenting only a particular side of the matters.
For the past 5-6 years, the press has been under the influence of certain groups of people and hence they do not have total freedom of expression. Especially the press from the government sector. Regardless of a certain level of freedom, it is understood that some information is covered up for the benefits of certain groups. When compared with neighboring countries which are under a dictatorial regime, we are certainly doing better but when looking at developed countries, our current conditions still need improvement.
The source of information that I trust the most is the National Assembly Radio & Television Broadcasting Station because they seem to present news and information in an objective way whether it is the information from the government or opposition parties.
This should be an example for all channels of media, to present the truth of all matters and let the audience think for themselves and have their own opinions. Mr. Chalermchai said.
He also added that being a political figure, especially in the provincial level as he is, he has to rely on local media such as local newspapers and radios in conveying the policies or activities to the people.
Mr. Tan Au-Suwan, the Senator of Prachuab Khirikhan said that it is not surprising that the government press is likely to present only the good side information of the government. What would be better is if a neutral committee is set up to take care of working with the government press. However, they should not come from the government sector again.
The elements of the press are the news and information which is the channel through which the news is passed to the reporters. It is important that no personal feelings or opinions regarding the matters are put in the news or information, especially when it comes to political issues or conflictions because it can actually cause harm, Mr. Tan said.
Mr. Tan added “To re-organize the rules of the press might not be possible since it would be against the constitutional law but the press; both electronic and printed media can and should re-arrange their own working systems in order to improve their standards and to be trusted by the people.”
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