Ditching Jeyakumar in Sg Siput a mistake

COMMENT | Firstly, I must defend Malaysiakini for publishing the alleged sexual harassment case involving Sungai Siput MP S Kesavan. Some readers had chided Malaysiakini for reporting on the case, saying that it was not newsworthy.

I had worn both hats in the past – as a newspaper editor and a politician. The issue of morality, virtue and ethics are all elements that must be taken seriously by a holder of public office. Similarly, media practitioners are also bound by a code of conduct involving sound journalistic practices and ethics.

A Member of Parliament, as an elected representative holding a public office, must surely be aware that his public and private life will come under close watch. Should he falter, it is the responsibility of the press to scrutinise where the MP had erred and report it as it is a matter of public interest.

In the case of S Kesavan, police reports have been lodged, and publishing the story from the reports is not wrong. Even an alleged involvement in a sexual harassment case, where a public figure is featured, is newsworthy. In no way did Malaysiakini indicate guilt on the part of any party.

It is true that, in general, journalists and politicians do not enjoy a particularly cosy relationship. In most cases, they are actually wary of each other...