Lobo Wants to Regulate Press Freedoms

Honduras Weekly
President Porfirio Lobo yesterday announced he will soon submit to Congress a proposed law to regulate freedom of the press in Honduras. "Get ready because I will be sending you a decree... you'll be getting it shortly," he promised. The President's comments came right after he had thanked the media for its work. "I want to express my appreciation to members of the press. Sometimes I don't tell you enough because I get a little embarrassed, but you do make a tremendous contribution. The right to provide information in an impartial manner in order to help guide public opinion is something that should always be ensured in Honduras," stated Mr. Lobo. "I remain firmly committed to not denying anyone their freedom of expression. This is fundamental to me."

But the President also warned that the rights of the press are not absolute and should always serve the interests of the public rather than those of any individual or group. According to Mr. Lobo, "The press is not meant to benefit anyone personally. Freedom of the press does not exist to defend particular interests. It is a cause, and it should be treated as such. Allowing for any particular influence or interest is called expression in the service of special interests, and that cannot be." (1/26/12)