KABUL - A media-support organization on Sunday submitted journalists' suggestions for amending a draft mass media law to the Ministry of Information and Culture, officials said.
Stressing the freedom of the press, Nai asked the deputy minister of information to amend the proposed law based on journalists' 19-point suggestions.

Article 4 of the law says each individual has the right to freedom of expression and access to information without interference from government officials. "This right also includes independent reporting, receipt and release of information.''

On the other hand, one proposal says: "Any person, regardless of his/her nationality, should have the right to the freedom of expression. The right involves independent release, distribution and acquisition of information…''
Article 52 of the mass existing law states: "Matters related to copyright, creation of associations, punishment for violations, advertisements and information seeking are regulated by separate laws."
But journalists sought clarity on their recruitment, privileges and rights of private media workers

As part of efforts at supporting press freedom and improving the media situation in Afghanistan, Nai sought opinions from media outlets, journalists and civil society representatives at a national conference held in Kabul on May 27.

Nai head Siddiqullah Tawhidi told reporters: "Now that the suggestions for amending the mass media law have been compiled, we urge the ministry to consider and incorporate them in case of changes.''

For his part, Deputy Minister of Information Din Mohammad Mubarez Rashedi called media growth of media outlets in the country a big achievement of the government. They would never allow the achievement to be damaged, he promised.

He added they would consider the journalists' views whenever amendments to the law were brought. "Undoubtedly, we can do good work under a balanced law. The mass media law needs some changes, but it does not mean that the law should be completely amended.''(Pajhwok)