Grenada gov’t should stop stifling media

THE EDITOR, Madam:

THE CARIBBEAN region has had a rich and enviable history of adhering to democratic principles and ideals.

It is extremely troubling to learn of recent developments in Grenada, a CARICOM member state. Prime Minister Dickon Mitchell adminstration recently barred the media from covering the swearing-in of new cabinet ministers, signalling a disturbing move towards information control and suppression of the free press. Mitchell, an attorney at-law, became the ninth prime minister of Grenada in 2022.

The Media Workers Association of Grenada has criticised the government regarding escalating concerns over freedom of the press in the country. The association, representing Grenada’s independent media, vociferously condemned the government’s action, labelling it a “dangerous new low”. A noteworthy point of history was in 1983, when then Grenadian Prime Minister Maurice Bishop incarcerated journalist Leslie Pierre, who ran the opposition newspaper The Grenadian Voice. Pierre stood in strong defence of press freedom; Bishop alleged that Pierre “engaged in acts of violence to overthrow the government”.

The move by the government of Grenada is clearly at odds with the democratic values of the people of the Caribbean region, and specifically to the Grenadian people. The lack of independent press coverage not only undermines the role of the media as the fourth pillar of democracy, but also obstructs the public’s right to be informed about government procedures and decisions. All democratic governments must adhere to the theme of World Press Freedom Day, ‘Shaping a Future of Rights: Freedom of expression as a driver for all other human rights’.

PM Mitchell’s administration must reverse its decision and allow for transparency in governance and inclusivity. Governments must do all within their power to safeguard a free and independent media. A robust fourth estate ensures a vibrant democracy, and as a result, all that can be done should be done to ensure that democracy continues to thrive in the Caribbean.

WAYNE CAMPBELL waykam@yahoo.com