Free press essential for good governance and transparency: Communication Minister

Kathmandu: Minister for Communication and Information Technology Dr. Bikram Timilsina has said that good governance, transparency, and public trust cannot be strengthened without a free press.

Issuing a message on the occasion of World Press Freedom Day, he described a free, impartial, and responsible press as the cornerstone of democracy, stressing its role in ensuring public accountability.

He said the media is not only a medium for information dissemination but also a key institution that holds the state, political leadership, administration, private sector, and society accountable. He added that freedom must go hand in hand with responsibility.

The Minister reiterated the government’s commitment to press freedom and expression as guaranteed by the Constitution of Nepal, while underlining the importance of factual reporting, professional ethics, and accountability to the public interest.

He also warned of growing challenges such as misinformation, misleading content, and misuse of social media, saying journalism based on truth and facts is increasingly important in the digital age.

Communication Minister Timilsina expressed respect for journalists working in the interest of truth and public service, and said the day will help strengthen independent and credible journalism.