Representing the network of 30 Thai media organisations, Thepchai Yong and Pramed Lekpetch, key men in the Media Working Group for Reform, read out a statement calling on the National Reform Steering Assembly to withdraw the controversial bill and abrogate all announcements and orders issued by the junta that limited press freedom and freedom of expression.

The statement encouraged media professionals and organisations to take responsibility and follow professional ethics in carrying out their duties. It also encouraged the people, as the consumers of news, to play an active role in holding the media accountable.

The media organisations emphasised that press freedom is crucial to a democracy under a constitutional monarchy and are opposed to any attempts to restrict the independence of the media and the people’s freedom of expression.

The media organisations also reiterated their commitment to make self-regulation more effective and more credible.

The event was joined by scores of media professionals, both Thais and foreigners, as well as representatives from the US and British embassies among others.