Title: Regional Media Bodies Rally to Support Jamaican Journalists Amid Rising Partisan Attacks
Bridgetown, Barbados (CMC) — The Caribbean Broadcasting Union (CBU) has expressed grave concerns over what it describes as "unfounded mis and disinformation attacks" on media professionals in Jamaica, particularly targeting journalists at member organizations like the RJRGLEANER Communications Group. These attacks have intensified amid Jamaica’s politically charged atmosphere, with the Press Association of Jamaica (PAJ) urging citizens to denounce the threats against press freedom.
The tension escalated last week following a viral video that falsely implicated the chairman of the RJRGLEANER Group in directing editorial policy while alleging connections between journalists at the Jamaica Gleaner and the opposition party, the People’s National Party (PNP). The PAJ swiftly condemned these baseless accusations, emphasizing the need for ethical journalism and media independence.
Despite the call for calm, the political climate remains fraught. Everald Warmington, a Jamaica Labour Party (JLP) legislator, reignited claims that the RJRGLEANER Communications Group harbors an agenda to discredit Prime Minister Andrew Holness. This accusation has exacerbated the environment of mistrust surrounding press outlets accused of political bias.
CBU President Anthony Greene has spoken out, underscoring the organization’s commitment to advocating for press freedom and expressing solidarity with Jamaican journalists under duress. Greene remarked, "The CBU is deeply concerned at these unfounded mis and disinformation attacks… as well as other media houses, apparently for political ends."
He further characterized the situation as a worrisome development that has already significantly impacted news professionals in Jamaica, especially given their crucial role in covering national events leading up to the 2025 elections. Greene reiterated the organization’s position that while media professionals are open to fair critique, attacks carried out for partisan reasons cannot be tolerated.
The CBU’s statement extends beyond Jamaica, reflecting a regional stance that champions unbiased reporting and media autonomy as fundamental elements of democratic societies. By condemning partisan attacks, the CBU hopes to uphold the integrity and independence of journalists who play a vital role in holding power to account and ensuring the public’s right to information.
As media practitioners in Jamaica continue to navigate these challenges, the support from regional and international bodies highlights the pressing need for a collective defense of journalistic freedom and ethical reporting standards, essential pillars for sustaining democracy and governance across the Caribbean.
