IJTI Condemns Hotman Paris's Remarks as Disparaging to Journalists
The Indonesian Television Journalists Association (IJTI) has condemned remarks by Hotman Paris Hutapea, lawyer for former Deputy Attorney General for Special Crimes Febri Ardiansyah, which were deemed to insult, demean and corner journalists carrying out their work in the field.
“We condemn all forms of verbal and non-verbal actions by any party that demean the dignity of the journalism profession,” said IJTI Chairman General Herik Kurniawan in a written statement on Monday (20 July).
He said press freedom and journalistic activity are one of the main pillars of democracy protected by law.
Journalists work not for personal interests, but to fulfil the public’s right to correct, balanced and accurate information.
Herik said that a journalist asking critical, sharp questions or seeking confirmation from a source is not a form of intimidation or trouble-making.
“Asking for information is a professional obligation of journalists to produce balanced news coverage, covering both sides,” he said.
He explained that in carrying out their duties, journalists are bound by the Journalistic Code of Ethics.
Regarding the obligation to test information and act independently, this is regulated in Article 1 of the Code: “Indonesian journalists act independently, producing accurate, balanced news in good faith.”
Meanwhile, Article 3 states: “Indonesian journalists always test information, report in a balanced manner, do not mix facts and judgemental opinion, and apply the presumption of innocence.”
“IJTI reminds everyone of the importance of mutual respect and maintaining ethical communication between professions. Issuing statements that demean another profession is tantamount to violating the values of professionalism itself,” he said.
IJTI urged all parties to respect journalists carrying out their professional duties.
Furthermore, IJTI reminded all elements of society that if there are objections to journalistic products or journalists’ conduct in the field, the resolution mechanism is constitutionally regulated through Law No. 40 of 1999 on the Press, namely through the Right of Reply, the Right of Correction, or by reporting to the Press Council, not through verbal intimidation or professional abuse in public spaces.
“We instruct all IJTI members and television journalists across Indonesia to continue working professionally, comply with the Journalistic Code of Ethics, and not be afraid to convey the truth in the public interest,” he said.
Hotman Paris previously held a press conference after accompanying his client, former Attorney General’s Office official Febrie Adriansyah, who was questioned as a corruption suspect on Friday, 17 July.
During that press conference, Hotman Paris, among other things, snapped “do you have a brain?” at a journalist carrying out their journalistic duties at the Attorney General’s Office.