KUCHING, Nov 12: Sarawak Parti Keadilan Rakyat (PKR) Information Chief Vernon Kedit condemns the alleged manhandling of DayakDaily journalist Nancy Nais by a PKR “pengawas” which happened during the party election in Sibu yesterday.
Speaking to reporters this morning, he apologised to Nancy on behalf of the party, adding that it was wrong for anyone to rough-up reporters and journalists who were carrying out their duties.
“Everybody must be treated with respect and dignity. It is the responsibility of all political parties and all people to respect the freedom of journalism and freedom of the press.
“On behalf of the party I apologise to Nancy. She’s a friend if mine and I know her very well. I apologize to her that this incident occurred and I would like to say that the party does not represent such things and the people who did this need to apologize and need to come up with their own statement as to why they did what they did,” said Vernon.
In that respect, he urged his colleagues in the party to continue respecting the freedom of the press and media, and treat all journalists irrespective of whichever organisation they are from, with decency, respect and integrity.
Nancy lodged a police report at the Kuching District Police Headquarters on Sunday night over the incident, and the police are investigating. — DayakDaily
