Chief of Staff of the Guyana Defence Force (GDF) , Brigadier Omar Khan, met with two members of the Executive body of the Guyana Press Association (GPA) on Friday. The meeting occurred at the Force Conference Room, Defence Headquarters, Base Camp Ayanganna.
A release from the GDF said that the purpose of the meeting was to discuss various matters and address concerns aimed at improving the relationship between the Guyana Defence Force and the GPA.
Present at the meeting were GPA President Nazima Raghubir and journalist Iva Wharton.
Brigadier Khan was joined by Adjutant General Colonel Lorraine Foster, Staff Officer One Special Duties, Lieutenant Colonel Selwyn Austin, Staff Officer One General Nine (ag) Major Edmond Blair and Public Affairs Officer Heppilena Ferguson.
The release said that Khan emphasised the importance of the media as a conduit between the Force and the public. He also acknowledged the role of the media in upholding transparency and accountability and facilitating the flow of accurate information in a democratic society.
Raghubir and Wharton reiterated the significance of responsible journalism and its role in promoting democratic principles and ensuring the public receives reliable information.
The release said that the meeting provided an open forum for constructive dialogue, enabling the Guyana Defence Force and the GPA to explore ways to strengthen their relationship, enhance understanding, and work together towards common objectives.
“The shared goal was to uphold democratic values and foster an environment where the media could effectively fulfil its crucial role”, the release said.
