Sudan says committed to media freedom

Dec 6, 2005 (KHARTOUM) — The state minister in the Presidency, Telar Deng, says the Government of National Unity is committed to the freedom of the media and expression as provided for in the Comprehensive Peace Agreement.

The minister was yesterday addressing a two-day media conference on the promotion of freedom of expression in Khartoum.

Addressing a media conference on the promotion of freedom of expression in Khartoum yesterday, Telar, who addressed Sudanese and foreign journalists on behalf of First Vice-President Salva Kiir said freedom of expression is a fundamental human right. He said freedom of expression is good for national unity and peaceful coexistence.

Addressing the media conference, the acting Norwegian ambassador in Khartoum, Kjell Herald Dalen, said the independent media in Sudan should play the role of a watchdog to promote good governance, human rights and democracy.

He said the media should keep an eye on the executive, the legislature and the judiciary to prevent abuse of power and corruption.

The Norwegian diplomat said the independent media in Sudan should give a voice to the voiceless.

(SRS/ST)