The expense of truth in Trinidad and Tobago

Instances of journalists being raided and investigated by authorities and media houses being under constant threat from officers are very contrasting images in which Trinidad and Tobago's freedom of press reputation is being questioned. As citizens, we attribute a degree of trust and faith in the media to broadcast and highlight the democracy our nation, however it is unfortunate to witness the extent to which media entities are being bullied by police officers and those in authority. The manner in which journalist are treated is not only unfortunate but also appalling,  the intimidation used by the police to media entities and representatives is very disrespectful.

With respect to a search exercise for a tape from a crime watch show and the incident with the journalist and their involvement in the integrity commission, we can observe a pattern in which the police seem to demonstrate such aggressive force towards situations which does not render them to do so. The phenomenon in which journalist are mistreated seem to be not only a local occurrence but an international one too, currently Libyan militia has detained two British Journalists accused of spying. It is also reported that the men entered the country illegally and were carrying incriminating evidence. is there a problem with citizen acquiring the truth and knowledge we are entitled too? Are we still under some form of subjugation in which freedom of press has become " freedom of press to an extent", the attitude of the authorities towards journalist leave only suspicion on their part since we are always left wonder what is it they are trying to withhold and prevent the public from knowing.

Maybe if as citizens we were to ask the question "why" more often rather than sit nonchalantly  by while we are "under a state of emergency" or having media houses raided for "tapes of a show" we may be able to lobby for better responses, not only do i think that the laws and constitution are there to protect journalist, but as citizens we can do our part to provide support and sanctuary for the presenters of democracy in our country!