CEC introduces pre-censorship

The CEC seems to think he is doing the press a favour when he talks to them. To the contrary, the press is assisting him communicate to the nation. When he limits or restricts their access to him, he is curtailing the people's right to know.

More troublingly still, the CEC has proffered no reason for this new rule. Is he overwhelmed by press inquiries? Has he been misquoted or misrepresented in the media? Is there any problem with the press corps? If so, we urge him to share these issues with the media, so that we can work together to correct them. We would be happy to co-operate.

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We understand that as a judge he is not used to the glare of the press and such close scrutiny. But Mr. Aziz is no longer a high court judge, he is now the chief election commissioner and his duties and the public's expectations for him are quite different. We urge Mr. Aziz to keep in mind the delicate nature of his post and the over-riding need for the public to retain confidence in him.

CEC's is a tough job. Mr. Aziz can expect to face partisan criticism that is undeserved, and whoever ends up on the losing side of the election he oversees will undoubtedly blame him and attempt to cast doubt on his performance. The one way for him to ensure credibility and ensure that he is not unfairly castigated is through total transparency of the process.

As the election draws nearer, the need for information for the public will become greater. Let us suggest that if it is too much for him to deal with multiple approaches for information he could fix a time every day for press briefing.

The bottom line is the new rule is unacceptable, and, if not reversed, will do severe damage to his credibility.