President Petro’s Contradictory Actions: ‍Strengthening Relations with Journalists or Discrediting the Media?

By Aura Isabel Olano Correa

In the midst of repeated disqualifications, insults, crimes, and disrespect towards the media, the press in general, and ‍journalists in particular, President Gustavo Petro Urrego announced a ‍presidential directive aimed at strengthening relations between ⁣public authorities​ and⁢ journalists and the media.

However, this announcement comes as a surprise, ⁢given‍ the President’s history of attacking journalists and the media. The directive’s objective is to promote a better understanding between public officials and the media, but it raises questions about ⁣the President’s sincerity.

As head of State, head of Government, ‌and⁣ supreme​ administrative⁣ authority, President Petro is a symbol of National Unity. However, his actions have polarized Colombians, dividing them and promoting an⁢ outdated ideology ⁣of class struggle. This approach has led to daily shocks, reforms without adequate study or consultation, and a lack of respect⁤ for the media’s⁤ role in investigating and denying government actions.

Just ​a​ couple of days ago, President Petro referred to journalists as “dolls of the mafia,” a ‍statement‌ that not only disrespects journalists but also magistrates,⁢ judges, politicians, and businessmen‌ who try to do their jobs. This insult is particularly concerning in a country where ‌the mafia⁢ has‍ persecuted journalists and media outlets ⁤for denouncing their criminal activities.

The⁢ President’s actions have also been criticized for promoting racism, as seen in‍ his comments‍ about the honorable judge Gerson Chaverra, president of the Supreme Court ​of Justice. President Petro’s statement that he does not understand why black⁢ men can be conservative ⁤is a clear example of discrimination and lack of respect.

The presidential ‌directive, which was the result of close collaboration with the Office of the Special Rapporteur on Freedom of Expression (RELE) of⁣ the Inter-American Commission on Human Rights (IACHR), establishes clear guidelines on the duties of public‍ officials when exercising freedom ⁣of expression⁤ and‌ respect for freedom of the press.

The directive applies to all public servants who interact with the media, including senior State officials. Key points include preventing stigmatization, promoting inclusive ‍public​ debate, guaranteeing access to information, and protecting the integrity of journalists.

This directive obliges public officials to respect the ​freedom of the press and expression, which is why it covers the President of the Republic, who is also a public servant. However,⁤ it remains to be seen whether President Petro ⁢will apply ​these principles in practice.

Related,‌ we are close to requests from #SubsidioDeVivienda for more​ information: application‍ requirements and more, visit our website: https://www.comfacauca.com/servicio/vivienda/