Media hypocrisy

Re: “Take a break, Sorrayuth”, (Editorial, March 2)

Despite the court finding Sorrayuth Suthassanachinda guilty of embezzling from public broadcaster MCOT, the anchor has refused to take a break from hosting his show.

Members of our media fiercely fight for the right to speak the truth as they see it, while being held accountable for their actions.

But, “the rock-bottom foundation of a free press is the integrity of the people who run it” (Adlai Stevenson).

We cannot believe a person who cheats others and lies to the court. For example, we will always wonder: Is he colouring his comments or selecting what to bring to our attention based on what he’s been paid under the table?

This case affects all members of the media — for if such a well-known TV personality can get away with it, are other media professionals cheats and liars also? Thus, his media colleagues cannot afford to ignore the issue.

Though he is appealing against the verdict, Sorrayuth’s integrity has already been called into question. To preserve his reputation, and protect those of his colleagues, he should take a break until his case has run its course.

Until then, he is legally branded as a crook, without integrity, honour, or credibility, and cannot be trusted.

BURIN KANTABUTRA