Meta message about anti-defamation law: Is time for reflection

schedule14:15 - 13 Janar, 2020

schedule 14:15 - 13 Janar, 2020

President Ilir Meta has reacted again after his decision to return the anti-defamation package to Parliament.

Meta has stated for a careful reading of the constitutional and legal arguments.

The president’s reaction comes after a statement by socialist group leader Taulant Balla, who said Meta returned the package following Lulzim Basha’s order. Balla also said they would overturn Meta’s decree on Monday.

Ilir Meta’s reaction:

Dear citizens,

Freedom of expression, freedom of the media and the right to the information, apart from being constitutional fundamental rights, are closely linked to the principle of building and operating a democratic state.

Albania has deteriorated in the last two years, according to conclusions of prestigious international journalist organizations as well as international institutions that have respect for media freedom.

So it’s time to reflect and not to stubbornly walk the path of censorship and authoritarianism, that would pose a threat to Albania’s European future.

Once again, I invite everyone to read the constitutional arguments carefully and the legal arguments for reviewing  the so-called “anti-defamation” package./abcnews.al