By Sulaiman Jalloh
Deputy Speaker of Parliament who doubles as the Chairman of the Public Accounts Committee (PAC), Hon. Ibrahim Tawa Conteh has, during the ongoing hearing of the 2022 Audit Report at the Parliament Building on Tower Hill in Freetown, on Wednesday, July 3rd, 2024, commended the Parliamentary Press Gallery for assiduously covering the hearing.
Hon. Ibrahim Tawa Conteh stated that the Audit Report hearing is public hearing and therefore applauded the media for what he considered as remarkable effort to make it easier. The lawmaker further intimated the crucial role that journalists play in holding public officials accountable to the democratic ideals of transparency and good governance.
The Acting President of the Parliamentary Press Gallery (PPG) Moses Lukulay said that it was an honour to receive accolades from the Deputy Speaker for reporting activities of PAC. He furthered that the PPG plays a vital role in a healthy democracy by providing accurate, balance and timely information to the public about actions and decisions of elected representatives. He furthered the recognition also underscores the importance of a free and independent press in maintaining an informed citizenry and upholding democratic values. The Acting President noted that it is indeed high time government officials valued the work of journalists as their reporting serves as a crucial check on power and helps to foster greater public trust in democratic institutions. He pointed out that by acknowledging and supporting the work of the PPG, the Deputy Speaker is demonstrating a commitment to transparency and accountability in government operations.
Copyright –Published in print in Expo Times Newspaper on Monday, July 8th, 2024 (ExpoTimes News – Expo Media Group (expomediasl.com)
