Press resilience in the time of adversity

The Namibian media have been bold in recent months, shining light in the darkest corners of unholy activities of the political establishment.

We have seen in recent weeks that the old trick of bullying the press into submission is back on the radar. Once uncomfortable truth about shenanigans by those we have elected into office are laid bare, journalists get accused of driving an ugly agenda. The truthfulness of what is reported plays second fiddle.

But if there was a time that journalism needed to lead the crusade for genuine democracy and transparency as fulcrums for a better Namibia, such time is now.

Of course, this calls for heightened awareness in terms of paying proper attention to facts and ensuring every box of ethical considerations is ticked off.

Journalism of truth, fearlessness and fortitude will save this nation from the crooked custodians of our resources, whose only interest is to steal in silence – without the media peering into their devilish plots of thievery.

The moment the media succumbs to this cowardice attempts to silence it, the episodes of Fishrot and other rots will replicate themselves unabated.

In fact, was it not for the media, Fishrot would not have come to light. If anything, what has been stolen so far in that scheme would have probably tripled by now.

There’s honour in truth-telling and the media must not dishonour that noble obligation.