The Independent Journalism Center, together with the co-signing media NGOs, condemns the despicable attempt by the National Alternative Movement (MAN) Political Party to discredit the reputation of several journalists, civic activists, and members of civil society organizations by insinuating and denigratingly associating them with an alleged “octopus” of the ruling party.
On April 23, on the “MAN – National Alternative Movement ” Facebook page, a post was published containing derogatory content directed at several media representatives, non-profit organizations, and public figures, insinuatingly portrayed as part of the so-called “PAS / Media Octopus.” Through the text and the graphic representation used, the authors of the post resort to political labeling and serious insinuations.
This message crosses the line of legitimate political criticism and constitutes a direct attack on the independent press, media organizations, and civil society. Labeling, stigmatizing, and attempts to validate the idea that independent media institutions or non-profit organizations are part of a politically controlled network amount to nothing less than an attempt at intimidation and public discrediting.
The rhetoric used by the MAN party directly contributes to the deterioration of the democratic climate and the undermining of public trust in independent journalism, fueling hostility toward journalists and organizations that support press freedom.
We emphasize that politicians and parties have an increased responsibility not to incite hostility against the press and civil society organizations. In a democratic society, journalistic and civic activity may be challenged when there are objections, through arguments, evidence, and honest public debate, not through insinuations, defamatory graphic materials, and smear campaigns.
We call on members of the MAN party to cease stigmatizing attacks against journalists, civic activists, and members of civil society organizations and to apologize to the individuals targeted in the defamatory post of April 23.
We call on all political actors to respect editorial independence, freedom of expression, and the essential role of media organizations in protecting the public interest.
Independent Journalism Center
Organizations that have joined the statement:
- Media-Guard Association
- Association of Electronic Press
- Association of Independent Press
- Acces-Info Center
- Press Freedom Committee
- Association of Environmental and EcoTourism Journalists of Moldova
- RISE Moldova
