Dili, October 24, 2025 (Média Democracia) – Through a press release delivered to journalists at the Press Council building this Thursday, the Press Council declared it is deeply concerned and regrets the conduct committed by UNDIL students, an incident involving physical aggression against a journalist on the UNDIL campus.
President of the Timor-Leste Press Council, Cesar Antonio Mali, stated that the Council expresses serious concern and deep regret over the incident that occurred inside the University of Dili (UNDIL) premises against a journalist who was carrying out coverage of a press conference related to certain sensitive issues allegedly involving a lecturer at the University of Dili.
“We want to inform the public that the media, as the fourth pillar, plays a vital role in strengthening democracy, promoting transparency, defending truth and justice, and giving voice to those unheard. Therefore, we urge the public to respect the work of journalists and the media, in order to create a free and safe environment for the media to perform their function responsibly and serve the public with accurate and credible information,” said Press Council President Cesar Antonio Mali.
The President further stated that any obstruction of journalistic work does not only violate freedom of the press and freedom of expression, but also violates the public’s right to access information, a right guaranteed by the Constitution of the Democratic Republic of Timor-Leste. Concerning the incident, the Press Council expressed strong regret over this simple act of physical aggression which prevented journalists from exercising their duties in a public space.
“We appeal to higher education institutions and all institutions to ensure a safe and free space for journalists to perform their functions. We encourage all journalists and media outlets to continue working professionally and responsibly in accordance with the Journalists’ Code of Ethics. We also call on social communication bodies that employ individuals as journalists to at least ensure they have an intern card, so that the rights of journalists are recognized when performing their duties in the field,” said the Press Council President.
The Press Council President reaffirmed the Council’s commitment to continue defending freedom of the press and freedom of expression, ensuring public access to credible information, and steadfastly defending the media and journalists in situations where they face threats.
The Press Council also commended journalist associations for their quick response to the incident through declarations and statements which demanded accountability from the perpetrators who committed physical aggression against the SAPNEWSTL journalist at the UNDIL campus, expressing hope that such incidents will not recur in the future.
Reporter: Domingas
Photo: Domingas