Support Bahrain’s newspaper: Urgent proposal in Parliament

TDT | Manama     

The Daily Tribune – www.newsofbahrain.com

Report by Mohammed Darwish

MP Hasan Ebrahim Hassan will present an urgent proposal during the next parliamentary term in October, aiming to allocate an annual budget to support local newspapers.

Hasan expressed his appreciation for the important role played by local newspapers, acknowledging their significant efforts in covering current events whilst upholding professionalism and transparency.

He drew attention to the fiscal tribulations affecting local newspapers, including a pronounced slump in advertising revenue.

To prevent job losses and support the continued existence of national dailies, the MP proposed allocating funds within the kingdom’s budget for the domestic press.

Consequently, government departments, he suggested, should distribute advertisements evenly among all local newspapers.

In light of Bahraini Press Day, marked on the 7th of May, Hasan extended his congratulations to the press family and journalists.

He commended their role in highlighting the efforts of various governmental and private entities and their dedication to conveying accurate news through responsible reporting.

Hasan lauded the Bahraini Journalists Association (BJA) for its advocacy in favour of the impending press legislations and the oversight of digital media.

He expressed aspirations for its prompt enactment.

The MP reaffirmed the government’s commitment to journalism through initiatives such as the Prime Minister’s Award for Journalism, which annually honours exceptional journalistic achievements and is supported by the Crown Prince, His Royal Highness Prince Salman bin Hamad Al Khalifa.