The Minister for Information Communication and Technology Timothy Masiu says Media Freedom in Papua New Guinea (PNG) is protected and not being suppressed by the government. Minister Masiu made this commented when interviewed by PNG HAUSBUNG just recently in light of the concerns about the state entities suppressing media freedom. Masiu stated that, “Papua New Guinea has a clean media since Independence in 1975 and that’s enshrined in our Constitution allowing free speech and expression.” “While we have instances of individuals challenges the status of media reports including attempts in the past to control media. Media Freedom is a right that no-one should be challenging, just like you have the right to speak and ask me the question.” “Media Freedom is something this government under the leadership of Prime Minister James Marape will always protect to have vibrant and good media in our country,” said Minister Masiu. Moreover, he mentioned that journalists who tend to distort or alter news implies corrupt or disorder in Media Freedom or in that particular area of expertise published. According to Minister Masiu, following the recent tension between Kalang-FM100 and Talkshow host Callighen Tanda, the decision was made by the Kalang board and management and the circumstances that led to the suspension were unknown. Meanwhile, he stressed that PNG Media has improve very well in the 2024 World Media Freedom rankings, PNG media has climbed up to 71st placing last year. “We are gaining grounds to making sure media is protected, media is given freedom do the job,” “I am sure we can keep going if we implement our media policy review.” “I am strong on free media and support the freedom of speech and expression, and I am strong on being responsible on the freedom we have in our constitution,” Minister Masiu said.