Bouteflika: electronic press is a major challenge for Algeria

Algerian President Abdelaziz Bouteflika Friday renewed his call on public authorities and written press to speed up the creation of a regulation authority.

Bouteflika expressed his hope that the authority would add more understanding between the government and written press. “It would also help Algerian press to promote its performance in freedom opinion fields and the diversity of ideas and convictions. It would also enable journalists to strengthen the belief that we are one unified people and we have one nation.”

He added that Algeria adopted a legislation “we should be proud of.” It enabled the country to occupy a superior position in terms of information freedom.

He also said the last constitutional amendment concretizes freedom of press in all its forms and the right of people to get information through the press.

“The constitutional amendment came as tangible actions were conducted to concretize the law on information. It included the creation of audio-visual regulation authority,” said the President.

He added that electronic media represent an important challenge in Algeria.

In a letter addressed to journalists on their National Day, he said eelctronic press comes from foreign countries and can lead to offend people or raise destructive ideas.

“There is a need to think of a way to put rules for electronic press,” he said.

“Journalists should report facts only”

Bouteflika called on journalists to report facts only and focus on Algeria’s interest regardless any political trend.

“Algeria faces many challenges including security, stability, economic, social, cultural and political development,” he said.

“With all those challenges, national media play an essential role in making public opinion and mobilizing capacities,” he added.

“You will find me always by your side to defend your rights and call for the promotion and prosperity of your job.”