H.E. the President meets with Editors Forum

source: Republic of Botswana (27/4/09) TAUTONA TIMES no 12 of 2009
The Weekly Electronic Press Circular of the Office of the President
"Democracy, Development, Dignity and Discipline"

C1) 27/4/09: H.E. the President meets with Editors Forum

His Excellency the President, Lt. Gen. Seretse Khama Ian Khama, recently met with a delegation of the Editors Forum, which included representatives from major domestic print and broadcast media.

The Minister of Communications, Science and Technology, the Hon. Pelenomi Venson-Motoi, and senior officials were also in attendance.

The meeting was convened to allow for a candid exchange of views on issues of common interest. During the discussion there was mutual recognition that more could be collectively done to improve the quality of news coverage in order to achieve greater accuracy and balance in reporting. 

For his part, His Excellency agreed to explore ways of improving the flow of information between his office and members of the private press. 

The editors also used the audience as an opportunity to raise their concerns about the recently passed Media Practitioners Act.

At the close of the meeting it was resolved that the Office of the President will continue to engage the Editors Forum and other media stakeholders in the interest of promoting greater mutual understanding and respect.

It was further resolved that an official within His Excellency's Private Office will be tasked with facilitating contact between the press and the Presidency, with the support of the BGCIS Directorate.