Prime Minister Pressed on Respect for the Media
A journalist asked a question. The Prime Minister responded with an insult. That exchange last week sparked a wider conversation about respect for the media and the conduct expected from the country’s highest elected official. The question concerned Special Envoy Rossana Briceño’s recent visit to Guatemala, but the Prime Minister’s choice of words quickly became the bigger story. This morning on Open Your Eyes, we gave him an opportunity to address the controversy.
Prime Minister John Briceño
“I’m a human being, first and foremost, and I am very protective of my family. What’s important is for us to be able to have a respectful dialogue, from both sides. In many instances, I feel that the media tries to play opposition, as opposed to covering the issues, or covering the stories. But you all think differently and we are never going to agree on everything. But I think that we can agree on important issues, the issues that are affecting our country, the issue of governance and how we can do better, and so forth. I think, I’m looking forward. I’m moving on and I just want to make sure that I will continue to deal with you all respectfully, and where I believe you are being disrespectful, the best thing for me is just to ignore it.”
Isani Cayetano
“Does that justify the use of language…”
Prime Minister John Briceño
“I think I’ve answered that question. So, mek we noh continue. Thanks.”
Isani Cayetano
“What can we as members of the media expect going forward? It feels like we’re venturing into uncharted territory in terms of what took place.”
Prime Minister John Briceño
“It’s not. It’s important for us to be able to maintain good dialogue, a respectful dialogue. We don’t agree on all the issues and that’s okay. That’s why we live in a democracy.”
While he stopped short of apologizing, the Prime Minister pledged to keep future exchanges with the press respectful.
Attention readers: This online newscast is a direct transcript of our evening television broadcast. When speakers use Kriol, we have carefully rendered their words using a standard spelling system.
Watch the full newscast here: