10 Feb 2019

Media freedom is crucial for democracy and good governance.

Speaking at a media engagement organised by French embassy in Gaborone recently, Ambassador Pierre Voillery said Botswana was a well-known example of good governance, partly because the media could operate freely.

He however stated that there was room for improvement.

He said media freedom in Botswana was remarkable and commendable since it executed its responsibilities well and in accordance with the laws of the country.

Mr Voillery commended President Dr Mokgweetsi Masisi for according the scribes the first presidential address in 10 years and said he assumed that 2019 would be even more thrilling as the country was heading towards general elections.

He expressed hope that the media would be part of the campaigns and pass on information to the people.

The media, he said, played an important role in ensuring that the nation was informed and voted with full knowledge.

He said his country would continue the constant and unwavering commitment to press freedom, freedom of expression and the protection of journalists worldwide.

Mr Voillery said France was committed to promoting the right to freedom of opinion and freedom of expression as guaranteed by Article 19 of the Universal Declaration of Human Rights of 1948.

He said France had ratified all the main international legal instruments on human rights in which freedom of opinion and expression were enshrined, adding that France was pro-active on topics regarding the multilateral and international organisations. ENDS