Fourth Estate celebrated on World Press Freedom Day

The Advocates for the Supremacy of the Constitution (SECTION 2) on May 3 commended Lesotho’s journalists for their indispensable role in promoting democracy and holding power to account – often under difficult circumstances.

In a statement marking World Press Freedom Day, the organisation pointed that press freedom is a fundamental societal issue, not merely a concern of the media industry. They called for broader recognition of the press as a pillar of democracy.

SECTION 2 also expressed deep appreciation for the work of media professionals across Lesotho, highlighting journalism’s ability to empower civil society, spotlight private sector achievements, and inform the public about those in positions of authority.

The group further criticised the lack of response from other sectors on this important day, describing the silence as “shameful” and detrimental to public discourse.

Addressing this year’s global theme ‘The impact of artificial intelligence on the media’, SECTION 2 acknowledged AI’s potential to support journalism but also raised concerns about misinformation, job insecurity, increased surveillance, and the erosion of editorial independence.

Reaffirming its support for media freedom, SECTION 2 pledged continued solidarity with journalists and media workers, stressing their shared responsibility in defending a free, independent, and ethical press.