KN Editor decides when to apologize

Jun 06, 2012 Letters

Dear Editor,
On the controversy surrounding the report of Minister Manikchand’s speech, on what was said and whether it was accurately reported, the editor in chief is the final arbiter on the matter.  He or she is in the best position to determine what is the best course of action – in the interest of the paper and in the interest of fair, balanced reporting.
If evidence existed to support the reporter, the editor should back the reporter to the end. Otherwise, the editor has to capitulate to save face and credibility of the paper. Those who were present at the event, apart from the copy of the recording, would be in the best position to determine whether what was said by the Minister was accurately reported by the journalist.
The editor, using his discretion, chose what he thought was the best course.  On the subject of apology, Mr. Frederick Kissoon, who reprimanded editor Adam Harris (KN Jun 4), has repeatedly been shown to be inaccurate in his reporting, comments, analyses, etc., most recently last week in his Jesus Superstar movie comment.  He is yet to apologize for them or show regrets.
Vishnu Bisram