Dear Editor,
The nameless minister involved in the shooting incident is still on the job and is likely still in possession of the firearm. My question is: What the news caption would have been, had the incident occurred in the reverse? Let me guess. It would have read something like this: ‘Man shot dead by police after attempted murder of minister.’ Or ‘Man in custody – attempted to kill minister.’ Of course his name would have been plastered all over the press. But here we have a different application of procedure. The minister’s privilege will certainly see him through unsanctioned and undeterred.
Not so long ago there was a report of a “Senior government official” who attempted to commit rape on a juvenile. That official’s identification was never released to the public. The matter ended abruptly when the mother of the child suddenly offered not to pursue. Mr Editor, I admit that I’m totally ignorant as to what your editorial policies regarding the release of names in these circumstances are, but now I am wondering whether these two might be one and the same. Sir, if you have any information, as to whether it is the same official, a simple editorial note will suffice.
After these stories broke, I consulted a friend of mine who has some experience as a media practitioner. I asked her why the names of certain people are not published when allegations of impropriety or even criminal conduct, are levelled at them. She mentioned something about prejudice, libel and professionalism. It was, I decided, too convoluted for me. These people are paid with taxpayers’ money They are supposed to be of a certain moral rectitude and composure. Why are there so many reports of unbecoming conduct, and what’s with the immunity from swift and appropriate sanction?
Yours faithfully,
(Name and address provided)
Editor’s note
We are not in possession of the relevant evidence against the minister. The police have not so far released any information. Based on the reports of what took place he should most certainly be charged and it will be a scandal if he is not. We intend to pursue the matter.
This minister is not the person who was allegedly involved in an attempted rape.