The Palestinian Journalists Syndicate in the Gaza Strip on Tuesday instructed local reporters and photographers to refrain from covering the clashes between Hamas and the Palestinian Authority security forces.
In a statement, the syndicate, which is controlled by members of the ruling Fatah party said that "pictures that some journalists are conveying to the international and local public opinion don't benefit the struggle of the Palestinian people for liberation and independence." It warned the journalists against continuing to cover the "unfortunate clashes for fear that that they would add fuel to the fire." The syndicate warned that anyone who violates its instructions would have to bear the personal and legal consequences of his or her deeds.
Referring specifically to local photographers, the syndicate urged them to place the national interests of the Palestinians above all other considerations. "Refraining from covering these sad events will end the current conflict," it pointed out. The syndicate also called on reporters to display "utmost caution" in dealing with statements and leaflets issued by the rival parties and to report only on matters that contribute to easing the tensions and preserving national unity.
While I understand that it is often necessary in times of conflict for the government to control information in order to limit access of intelligence to the alleged enemy, but what the PA is doing is threatening photographers and journalists from reporting to the both local and international community the true state of affairs within the Palestinian Authority/Hamas controlled areas. The rise of groups like Hamas was the direct result of the PLO/PA inability to provide a honest, transparent and accountable governance.
Let’s not pretend that the sun does not rise in the east and set in the west. The last thing the world needs now is another thugacratic state in the Middle East.
No comments:
Post a Comment