We Say: Anti Media Bill in April?

WHAT do you think the Democratic Party’s priority is?
1. The much-needed anti-party-hopping legislation it promised urgency on as part of its campaign for reelection?
Or
2. An anti Media Bill which could be used to restrict the rights of all Cook Islanders to freedom of expression and information?
If you answered 1, think again.
An element amidst the Demos apparently thinks the anti Media Bill is more important.
This element apparently sees being able to clamp down on freedom of information and freedom of expression as more important.
More important than clamping down on the party hopping which has brought so many years of political instability to this country. Political instability that has done the people no good.
PUSH
Why else is this element now apparently pushing for the anti Media Bill to be brought to Parliament in the session due to begin after Easter?
There is no other bill like this in the independent nations of the Pacific Islands.
Politicians trying to push similar bills in Fiji and Papua New Guinea were forced to withdraw their proposed legislation. They faced such a wave of public anger that they had no choice.
We know there are prominent people in the Democratic Party who do not support the anti Media Bill.
Prime Minister Jim Marurai and Foreign Minister Wilkie Rasmussen have both had the courage to say publicly that they do not agree with it.
So who is this element pushing this draconian legislation that could be used to curb the right of all Cook Islanders to freedom of information and expression?
It’s time more of those Demo MPs who don’t agree with this bill start speaking out. They should never forget that such a bill could one day be used to silence them.

Headlines : Times 194 02 April 2007
- Medical school hits back
- Drum maker in demand
- Woman’s mayoral hopes dashed
- Cooks Tourism named for world travel award
- YOU SAY: Be warned about board sackings
- WE SAY: Anti Media Bill in April?
- Landowner: HQ for Police only
- Idle Te Kukupa was put at risk
- Tough routine for Oceania hopefuls

Headlines : Times 193 26 Mar 2007
- Spanish fleet threatens our fishing
- Red Cross meeting will feature HIV, AIDS, STIs
- Area’s not for huts: Minister
- Achievement gets official recognition
- GOOD SIGNS: Road markings show Police Review action
- Training squad chosen for Oceania
- Tony Iro gets coaching job.
- Watch research, warns Sir Tom
- Lagoon Petero’s training ground