KARONGI- Local leaders in the western region were yesterday urged to closely work with the media to foster development.

The call was made by Ibrahim Karema, the officer in charge of media freedom and access to information at the Media High Council (MHC).

"The media is the focal point of communication. It plays a vital role in achieving full social and economic development of the society,” said.

He reminded them that journalists should be accorded their fundamental right to information for their work to contribute positively towards meeting developmental targets.

Laurent Nkongoli, a legal expert at the Human Rights Commission, said that collective efforts are necessary in the promotion of freedom, responsibility and professionalising the media.

"Once the media is given full attention, rapid response towards sluggish developmental programs will be swift,” Nkongoli said.

He also cautioned journalists against careless reporting saying that it undermines their credibility and sometimes puts the country’s security at risk.

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